Joint Appeal Joint Appeal by IG Metall and Gesamtmetall: A minute of silence at workplaces on Friday

The employers’ association Gesamtmetall and the labor union IG Metall are jointly calling on workplaces and employees in companies across the German metal and electrical industries to observe a minute of silence for the victims of the war in Ukraine. On Friday, March 11, 2022, at 11 a.m. , we want to come together to commemorate the victims of the war of aggression launched by Russian President Vladimir Putin and thus send a message of peace to Ukraine.

We condemn the war in the strongest possible terms. It must end immediately. We call on the Russian government to cease all attacks and withdraw its troops. The invasion of a sovereign state is a clear violation of international law and a massive breach of the principles of the UN Charter. It is an expression of reckless power politics. There is no reason for this and no justification whatsoever. After decades of peace in Europe, this military aggression against an independent country is a profound turning point for all of us. Within just a few days, the foundations of our peaceful coexistence have been called into question.

Our unconditional solidarity goes out to the people of Ukraine. They have become victims of a brutal invasion and are suffering directly from the inhumane consequences of the war. We support all efforts that contribute to achieving a ceasefire and peace. Germany and Europe must show solidarity by welcoming people fleeing the war and providing humanitarian aid to alleviate human suffering. Wherever we can, we, too, will help.

Germany, Europe, and many other countries have responded resolutely to these acts of aggression. The sanctions against Russia that have already been adopted are directed against those politically responsible and explicitly not against the Russian people, even though they, too, are suffering from the consequences. These measures will require sacrifices from all of us.