PRESS RELEASE NO. 47/2021 Nationwide Day of Action: More than 50,000 workers send a wake-up call to policymakers and employers

Frankfurt am Main – Today, workers in the metal and electrical industries took to the streets in more than 50 cities to demand a just social and ecological transformation of the industry. Throughout the day, more than 50,000 metalworkers nationwide demonstrated on streets, in public squares, and in front of factory gates to advance their cause. They heeded IG Metall’s call to increase pressure on policymakers and employers to invest decisively now in sustainable jobs within a climate-neutral industry. In numerous locations, lawmakers and government representatives from the federal, state, and local levels attended the rallies and sought dialogue with the demonstrators.

“Our wake-up call to policymakers and employers is desperately needed. Vague programs and lip service won’t spark change or progress. The future of the industry and its workers must not be derailed by the debt brake. And the path for workers into the workforce of tomorrow must be paved with secure bridges. We demand clear commitments to jobs and investment,” demanded Jörg Hofmann, President of IG Metall, today at a rally in Berlin’s government district. “Our goal is a modern, sustainable economy coupled with strong social cohesion in our society. We are committed to a new beginning and opportunities for all. We want a ‘FairWandel’—a social, ecological, and democratic transformation.”

Under the slogan “FairWandel—social, ecological, democratic,” IG Metall is committed—even beyond this day of action—to a transformation that is capable of meeting climate targets, strengthening Germany as an industrial hub, and securing employment. IG Metall criticizes the fact that policymakers and employers are often too hesitant to invest in the technologies and products of the future, thereby jeopardizing good jobs in Germany.

Specifically, IG Metall calls for no layoffs during the transformation, sustainable prospects for future-proof jobs at the affected locations, as well as a skills development initiative and quality on-site training instead of relocating operations abroad. Another key demand is for 500 billion euros in public investment in the future by 2030. The burdens must be distributed fairly, and the necessary investments must be funded through solidarity-based financing.