German unions demand stronger role in shaping national reforms
We have put forward countless proposals for modernizing the state, particularly in economic and industrial policy—but far too few of them are being heard.
She criticized the fact that trade unions and employers' associations are barely given a voice in key decision-making bodies. "Right now, we're seeing it in the pensions commission, the finance commission, healthcare, and other areas: the social partners—both employers and ourselves—are simply not being included," she said. "We might get called in for an hour to offer a few comments, and that's it."
The head of the German Trade Union Confederation (DGB) warned that this approach undermines both the quality and public acceptance of reforms. "You can't shape social policy from inside an academic bubble," she argued. Instead, there needs to be broad discussion about "a whole range of changes" and joint initiatives launched. "We need to resolve societal debates in a way that builds consensus—and that requires a much broader social agreement."
Fahimi issued a clear call to the governing coalition: "I can only urge this federal government to engage in far more intensive dialogue with us." She dismissed superficial half-hour exchanges where unions are merely asked to comment as insufficient. "In the past, things were definitely handled differently," she noted. "From where I stand, this approach just won't work."
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