German Metal and Electrical Industry Employees Demand Higher Wages Amid Economic Concerns
The Industrial Union IG Metall in Frankfurt announced the results of a survey involving 318,453 employees from 2,705 companies, revealing a strong demand for increased wages in the German metal and electrical industry. The survey indicates that employees are seeking higher wages to counteract the effects of inflation, with a focus on self-determined working hours, location and employment security, and retirement benefits. Concerns over rising costs were highlighted, particularly among apprentices and dual students facing increased living expenses.
Christiane Benner, First Chairperson of IG Metall, stressed the need for noticeably higher and sustainable wages to enhance employees' purchasing power, even as inflation rates are showing signs of easing. The survey results reflect a sentiment that the economic situation in Germany is mixed, with 41% of respondents describing it as poor, but 44% viewing their company's situation as good or very good.
Nadine Boguslawski, a Collective Bargaining Board Member of IG Metall, noted that employees tend to have a more positive outlook on their company's economic status compared to employer associations' perspectives. The IG Metall Executive Board is set to propose specific wage demands to district wage commissions on June 17, ahead of the anticipated wage negotiations for the industry set to conclude on September 30.
In a related development, IG Metall has criticized a personnel decision at ThyssenKrupp, pointing to a lack of employee participation in the process. The criticism raises concerns about accessibility and transparency in decision-making within the industry. As the demand for higher wages gains momentum, the call for increased employee involvement and fair decision-making processes is likely to remain a key focus for the sector.
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