PRESS STATEMENT Study on the Rail Industry: Promoting Innovation, Strengthening Good Jobs

A new industry study by the Hans Böckler Foundation highlights the strong economic and technological position of the German rail industry and, based on a comprehensive data analysis, develops concrete recommendations for action (clickhere for the Hans Böckler Foundation’s press release).

Jürgen Kerner, Second Chairman of IG Metall and the union’s executive board member responsible for the rail industry, comments:

“The study shows that the future of the rail industry is not merely a matter of transportation policy, but a key industrial policy issue. Tens of thousands of workers in the sector hold highly skilled jobs covered by collective bargaining agreements. This industrial value creation must be maintained and expanded in Germany.

To achieve this, first, we need long-term, secure financing for rail infrastructure and rolling stock procurement. Only with reliable investments can companies build capacity and secure jobs.

Second, Germany must become the leading market for modern rail and signaling technology. If innovations are developed here, they must also be put to use here. This strengthens the competitiveness of domestic industry and secures industrial hubs along the entire value chain.

Third, we need an active industrial policy that provides targeted support for locations, research, and skilled workers. Anyone who wants a transportation transition must also strengthen the industry that develops and produces trains, control and safety technology, and digital solutions.

Our expectation of the federal and state governments: Those who use taxpayer money to finance infrastructure and vehicles must ensure that these investments also strengthen value creation, innovation, and good jobs in Germany.”