metal and electrical industries, has finalized a controversial agreement without a workplace vote. The deal, opposed by many union members, has been criticized as another sell-out by union officials prioritizing corporate interests. The agreement impacts 3.9 million workers, imposing real wage cuts, while benefiting corporate profits and aligning with government policies of rearmament and industrial downsizing.
The contract, negotiated in Bavaria and Coastal districts, introduces a 25-month industrial peace clause, effectively stifling resistance to mass layoffs and plant closures already announced by major companies. Workers have expressed their anger on IG Metall’s social media pages, calling the deal a betrayal. Comments include:
- “Thanks for this loss of purchasing power,” wrote Andrè.
- “We won’t see most of the payments until 2026!” lamented Stefan.
- “It’s time we thought about leaving this joke of a union,” added Matthias.
Union leader Christiane Benner defended the agreement, hailing “social partnership” as a stabilizing factor in uncertain times. However, critics argue that IG Metall, heavily influenced by corporate and government alliances, has abandoned its role as a defender of workers’ rights.
Activists are calling for independent action committees to challenge the union’s decisions, demand strike votes, and resist wage theft, layoffs, and social cuts. They emphasize the need for an international working-class movement to oppose corporate greed and militarization.
