German union chief slams chancellor over labour rights ahead of crisis talks
Frank Werneke, head of Germany’s largest trade union, has spoken out on key labour issues ahead of a meeting with Chancellor Friedrich Merz. He criticised the chancellor’s approach to union relations while setting clear boundaries on pensions, working hours, and retirement age.
Werneke made it clear that workers’ rights must stay protected. He ruled out any moves to abolish the eight-hour workday or reduce pension levels. Raising the retirement age was also dismissed as an option.
He called for urgent talks on elder care and the healthcare system. Occupational pensions, he admitted, need attention but without weakening existing protections. The union leader expressed disappointment in Merz’s leadership so far. He noted that the chancellor had not brought unions and employers together in his first year. Still, Werneke welcomed the upcoming meeting as a chance to discuss these concerns directly. On broader cooperation, he remained sceptical. Werneke stated he saw no sign of Merz seeking real consensus with unions at present.
The meeting with Merz will address pensions, healthcare, and working conditions. Werneke’s stance keeps key protections in place while pushing for reforms in specific areas. The outcome could shape future labour policies under the current government.
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