Labor Day: DGB Chair Fahimi Opposes Changes to Working Time Laws

On Labor Day, Yasmin Fahimi, the Chair of the German Trade Union Confederation (DGB), firmly opposed proposed amendments to working time regulations by a potential future government. Speaking at a central DGB rally in Chemnitz, she criticized employers for their role in the economic challenges currently facing Germany.

Fahimi emphasized the need to discuss the accountability of corporate leadership in the economic downturn, questioning their entrepreneurial spirit and risk-taking at their respective locations. She highlighted that the economic struggles and job insecurities were not solely due to political decisions but also stemmed from poor management choices.

In response to the coalition plans between the Union and the SPD, which suggest allowing a weekly maximum working time instead of daily limits, Fahimi stated that it was imperative to maintain existing standards in occupational safety and rest periods. She asserted a strong stance for the eight-hour workday, rejecting the notion that the workforce was lazy or required to work more hours. 'Hands off the Working Time Act,' she declared, calling for fair treatment of workers.

Fahimi pointed out the prevalence of unpaid overtime, illustrating the immense pressure employees are under. She noted that when workers are compelled to work additional hours without compensation, it effectively reduces their wages. The existing Working Time Act is designed to protect employees from overexertion, allowing for up to 60 hours of work per week under current regulations.

Federal Chancellor Olaf Scholz expressed his support for workers, asserting that many individuals are working hard for inadequate pay. He advocated for fair wages and robust trade unions, emphasizing their importance for social cohesion in Germany.

The origins of Labor Day date back to 1890, established as a day for the labor movement to voice their demands. It remains a public holiday in Germany, marked by numerous protests and gatherings nationwide, where unions advocate for better wages and working conditions under the slogan 'Stand strong with us!'.

During the rally, Fahimi outlined several key demands from the DGB. Among them was the endorsement of a debt-financed special fund of 500 billion euros proposed by the Union and the SPD for infrastructure investments. She stressed the necessity for an investment initiative targeting transportation, education, digitalization, and public administration, linking economic support to commitments for long-term employment and loyalty to local industries.

Fahimi also called for stricter legal actions against the obstruction of works councils, stating that hindering these councils infringes on the fundamental rights of employees. Additionally, she proposed a 'real wage compliance law' to ensure that public contracts are awarded only to companies adhering to collective agreements, thus putting an end to the use of taxpayers' money for unfair wage practices.

Regarding pensions, the DGB demands a permanent stabilization of pension levels at no less than 48 percent, warning against exposing significant portions of retirement savings to market risks, as this could jeopardize future pensions.

Finally, Fahimi highlighted the importance of social stability and legal certainty as critical factors for a favorable business environment. She concluded by advocating for unity in Europe as a counter to isolationist policies, asserting that workers should not be divided by large tech corporations.