Kassel – “In light of the profound changes brought about by digitalization, globalization, and climate change, we are in the midst of a transformation process that must be managed with a whole new dynamic and at a new pace. The labor unions are called upon—and they are capable—of shaping the upheaval in our industries in such a way that work and life become more secure, fairer, and more self-determined. Collective bargaining agreements and co-determination rights—these are the most important tools to ensure that no one is left behind and that social cohesion is strengthened. That is why our demand to policymakers today is: Strengthen our works councils and staff councils. Strengthen the collective bargaining system. Then the country will remain strong as well,” said Jörg Hofmann, President of IG Metall, in his May 1 speech on Tuesday in Kassel.
Hofmann called on the government to stop merely putting out fires and finally take on a proactive role in shaping the future again. “Especially in light of the rapid changes taking place, we need a fundamental reform of the education system in particular. It must offer equal opportunities for all and take into account the fact that a career change may be necessary multiple times over the course of a working life. A right to continuing education is therefore absolutely essential, and it must also be institutionally guaranteed.”
The IG Metall chairman also sees continuing education as an important responsibility for companies: More money and time for training are necessary to be prepared for digital forms of work and processes, as well as new tasks and business areas.
“It is clear that the industry is not doing enough to provide continuing education for its employees. This is disastrous given the transformation our industries are undergoing. That is why it is necessary for policymakers to grant works councils the right to initiate company-based continuing education programs, enabling them to demand binding measures,” said Hofmann.
This transformation also offers an opportunity to better balance work and life, Hofmann said. “This year’s collective bargaining agreement in the metal and electrical industries shows that we can successfully shape the working world of the future. Together with the workforces at our companies, we have fought for and secured greater autonomy over working hours. That is how real social progress is achieved.”
Regarding the current debate on Germany’s foreign trade surpluses, Hofmann explained: “The right path is not to reduce exports, but to increase imports in response to rising domestic demand. And the DGB unions have strongly underscored this approach with the wage increases agreed upon so far. This brings greater fairness to the distribution between labor and capital, as well as a more balanced trade balance.”
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