IG Metall warns of de-industrialization in the East

In the run-up to the conference of the minister presidents of the eastern states, the IG Metall districts in eastern Germany are warning against de-industrialization. In a joint declaration, the trade union representatives call on politicians to take decisive action against job losses and the closure of sites by making things easier for industry. Also to avert threats to democracy.

IG Metall: Traumatic experience must not be repeated

"The traumatic experience of the 1990s must not be repeated," said Jan Otto, IG Metall district manager for Berlin-Brandenburg-Saxony. Industry is important for prosperity and social cohesion in the East. The new jobs created after reunification, particularly in car production but also in steel and rail vehicle construction, should not be carelessly jeopardized, Otto continued.

In IG Metall's view, an industrial electricity price of five cents per kilowatt hour, an expansion of renewable energies, the promotion of electromobility and the strengthening of the offshore industry could help to preserve jobs, for example. Eastern Germany is particularly affected by the crisis in the industry. "That's why we now need a joint effort from business and politics to prevent a downsizing of Eastern Germany."

Meeting of Eastern German Minister Presidents in Thuringia

The Minister Presidents of the Eastern German states will meet on Thursday at Ettersburg Castle near Weimar. In addition to economic policy, the agenda also includes topics such as the defense structure in eastern Germany and the fight against hate online. Federal Chancellor Friedrich Merz (CDU), Defense Minister Boris Pistorius and East German Commissioner Elisabeth Kaiser (both SPD) are also expected to attend the conference. For Merz, the appearance in Thuringia will be his first official visit to East Germany since taking office as Chancellor.