IG Metall Calls for a Change of Course for the Future of the Auto Industry

Jan Otto, head of the IG Metall Berlin-Brandenburg-Saxony regional chapter, has accused executives in the German auto industry of making serious mistakes. “For years, managers have failed to keep up with trends in e-mobility, digitalization, and battery technology,” he criticized during a rally in front of Volkswagen’s engine plant in Chemnitz. “Now they want to make their workforces pay for it. We won’t let that happen.”

Tens of thousands of jobs have already been lost, Otto emphasized, citing union figures. “We demand that employers and policymakers make a U-turn to secure the future of the auto industry.” This requires investment in the future, innovation, and workforce training. “There must be an end to drastic cutbacks, plant closures, and relocations.” 

Thousands Expected at Mass Rally in Zwickau

On Monday, the IG Metall union called for nationwide actions under the slogan “A Future Instead of Mass Layoffs—Solidarity Is Our Strongest Brand.” 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. 

In addition, a large rally is planned for this afternoon in downtown Zwickau, where, according to IG Metall, several thousand people are expected to attend. The reason for this is that the future of VW’s local car plant, which employs about 8,000 people, is uncertain. Not only many employees at the plant itself, but also numerous workers at supplier companies in the region are worried about their jobs as a result.