IG Metall Calls for Major Investments in Upcoming Bundestag Election

The industrial union IG Metall has issued a call for substantial investments and support for the industry in the context of the upcoming Bundestag elections. The union's leadership emphasizes the necessity of preparing the industrial sector for future challenges, highlighting the critical importance of industrial job preservation and creation.

IG Metall's chairperson has stressed the need for a campaign that fosters unity rather than division, urging political parties to focus on constructive dialogue rather than polarizing issues. The union advocates for a campaign that prioritizes the vital question of maintaining industrial value creation, safeguarding existing jobs, and providing new work opportunities.

According to IG Metall, the industry remains a cornerstone of employment in Germany, with approximately eight million jobs directly linked to its performance. This reinforces the argument for the industry's prominence in election discourse.

In terms of specific proposals, the union's representatives have called for a massive investment package amounting to 600 billion euros dedicated to public infrastructure over the next decade. This funding is considered essential for retaining key technologies such as batteries, semiconductors, and hydrogen production within Germany. Additionally, the union advocates for lower energy prices and an expansion of the electricity grid, emphasizing the need for substantial reductions in electricity costs for energy-intensive industries.

To stimulate the sales of electric vehicles, IG Metall proposes a socially equitable incentive package that would allow households to deduct taxes on electric vehicle purchases. They suggest making it easier for low-income individuals to lease battery-operated vehicles. However, this support would be restricted to vehicles primarily manufactured within the European Union.

To finance these initiatives, the union is pushing for a reform of the debt brake, arguing for the necessity of enabling full credit financing for investments aimed at transitioning the economy. Furthermore, the introduction of a wealth tax is advocated, ideally coordinated with a minimum taxation framework for ultra-wealthy individuals among G20 nations.

As the election approaches, IG Metall is planning a nationwide action day in mid-March, coinciding with potential coalition negotiations, expecting participation from tens of thousands of workers across five major cities.

Overall, the union's proposals underscore the critical need for strategic investments in the industrial sector, aiming to secure both current employment levels and future job creation in Germany.