IG Metall Calls on Auto Workers Nationwide to Protest

Excess capacity, job cuts, growing competition from China: The German auto industry is in crisis. Entire auto plants with thousands of jobs face an uncertain future, and achievements such as the 35-hour workweek are increasingly being called into question. In response, the IG Metall union is organizing nationwide protests this Monday. 

More than 280 actions planned

Whether in Wolfsburg, Zwickau, Stuttgart, Saarbrücken, or the Ruhr region: In every federal state, IG Metall has called on employees of automakers and suppliers to send a clear message. The slogan is: “A Future Instead of Cutbacks—Solidarity Is Our Strongest Brand.” According to reports, various actions are planned at more than 200 locations. These include internal company meetings, active lunch breaks, marches to a central location, and public rallies. The union expects more than 100,000 people to participate.

Benner: “Unprecedented attack on workers”

The complaint is that employees, in particular, are being forced to bear the brunt of the industry crisis. “We are currently witnessing an unprecedented attack on workers in the automotive industry,” IG Metall President Christiane Benner had stated in reference to the day of action. This must stop. Not only have automakers and suppliers in this country already cut thousands of jobs. The union also fears further cuts for workers and demands: “Hands off the 35-hour workweek!”

IG Metall is also calling for the following

Furthermore, the union is demanding that companies invest more heavily in German locations again. For example, in areas such as battery production, autonomous driving, and modern production facilities. In addition, there needs to be a return to more models that generate high volume and ensure higher capacity utilization in the factories. “Invest in locations instead of a windfall for shareholders!” is the union’s slogan. Politicians are also being called to account. They must ensure lower electricity costs and less bureaucracy. In addition, the union is calling for an expansion of tariffs on cars from China as well as financial aid for suppliers undergoing restructuring.