DGB Urges Coalition Parties to Prioritize Rural Development

In a recent appeal, the German Trade Union Confederation (DGB) has called on the Union and SPD to prioritize the fight against the growing urban-rural divide in their coalition agreement. This request follows the outcomes of the Bundestag elections and recent state elections, which indicate a significant portion of the population, particularly in rural areas, feels increasingly alienated from mainstream political parties.

The DGB's eight-point plan highlights the critical need for government action to address the declining state support in rural areas, resulting in a diminished political presence and a pervasive sense of neglect among residents. The union emphasizes that, given the multifaceted challenges such as demographic change, ensuring essential services, improving mobility options, and managing regional structural transformation, rural regions require heightened political focus and support.

Among its specific demands, the DGB is advocating for improved financial resources for municipalities, alongside a debt relief framework for financially struggling cities and towns. Strengthening public administration and addressing personnel shortages in the public sector through enhanced salaries and better working conditions are also key points of their agenda. Moreover, the DGB stresses the importance of creating affordable housing without exacerbating land consumption.

In terms of transportation policy, the DGB insists on urgent repairs to dilapidated bridges, railways, and roads, as well as the expansion of public transportation networks. They also propose an increase in funding for economically disadvantaged regions, ensuring long-term financial support for structural transformation efforts. Additionally, the union advocates for the incorporation of climate protection and climate adaptation as shared responsibilities of federal and state governments within the constitutional framework.

DGB board member Stefan Körzell noted that the rise of extreme political factions is tied to the feelings of disenfranchisement in these areas, where nearly half of the population resides. He stressed that it is crucial for politicians, especially the incoming federal government, to demonstrate their ability to resolve issues by addressing the needs of these communities. Körzell highlighted the necessity for a robust healthcare system, efficient public services, reliable internet access, and improved transportation links as fundamental objectives to achieve equitable living conditions across regions.

He concluded by underscoring that timely and effective action to rectify existing deficiencies could help restore public trust in politics and democracy. Conversely, failure to address these issues could lead to further societal fragmentation.