Collective Bargaining

We’re for more

Employees at VW, Mercedes-Benz, and other automakers and suppliers are giving their corporate bosses a rough fall. They will no longer allow themselves to be made scapegoats when management mistakes are the cause of the crisis. A nationwide day of action is scheduled for September 21.

Is Germany a fair country? Many people say: no! Tax policy is the key lever for greater social justice. We should use this lever—and we should do so quickly and in several areas.

Kelvion plans to relocate its profitable heat exchanger production in Wilchwitz (Thuringia) to the west. After nearly four weeks on strike, employees and IG Metall have reached a collective bargaining agreement that includes generous severance packages. A new investor intends to take over at least part of the operation.

Working longer, smaller pensions, cuts to long-term care: The attack on the welfare state is growing ever more intense. On September 26, metalworkers will stand up against it. As part of the “Hart verdient” day of action, they will take to the streets in 15 German cities.

The German metal and electrical industry is in crisis and cutting jobs. Employers are demanding that we work longer hours again—preferably without pay—and that the 35-hour workweek be abolished, claiming that this would solve everything. But will that really make a difference?

The federal government’s reform plans will mean cuts for many workers. It’s time to actively defend the welfare state.

Automotive industry workers are resisting their corporate bosses’ fantasies of cost-cutting and offshoring. During the nationwide day of action, they will send a clear message: Competitiveness is not achieved through cost-cutting, but through investment.

How much money are apprentices entitled to? Apprenticeship pay can vary depending on the industry, region, and whether a collective bargaining agreement applies. One thing is certain: you’re better off with a collective bargaining agreement. Our FAQ on pay.

Are you having problems with your apprenticeship? Are you having trouble getting along with your instructor? Do you find learning difficult? Is your money barely enough to make ends meet? And what if I get sick? We answer frequently asked questions.

Apprentices and dual-track students can receive various forms of financial assistance. We provide tips on the vocational training allowance (BAB), BAföG, housing allowance, and child support—and we explain what you should keep in mind when working a part-time job.

Vocational training is considered a model of success. Yet a decline in apprenticeship openings, financial worries among many apprentices, and millions of young people without vocational qualifications show that not everything is running smoothly in the apprenticeship market. Five theses on the start of the 2026 apprenticeship cycle.

Cost-cutting measures, layoffs, plant closures: Across Germany, automakers and suppliers are delivering bad news: Employees have had enough. On September 21, IG Metall will organize all-day, nationwide actions and protests at German automotive sites.