Germany is hit by a new wave of strikes and demands

Since November 1, thousands of strikes, rallies and demonstrations have taken place in Germany. They involve employees of automobile plants, machine-building and electrical enterprises. They are seeking a 5 percent increase in wages over 12 months, as well as job security and job security.

One of the most massive events took place at the Audi plant in Neckarsulm. According to the union, about 6.5 thousand people came to it. Employees are demanding not only higher revenues, but also guarantees for the company against the backdrop of reduced capacity of the German automotive industry.

Employers offered a lump sum payment in 2027 and a 1.3 percent pay rise from July 2028. IG Metall considered these conditions insufficient as they do not compensate for the rising cost of living. Negotiations are ongoing, but no agreement has been reached yet.

The union proposed a mechanism to support enterprises in crisis. It provides for investment in new industries and the obligation of employers to keep jobs. If no compromise is found, strikes could continue.

The labor dispute affects about 3.7 million workers in the German metallurgical and electrical industries. The shares come amid industry structural problems, rising production costs and employee anxiety over the future of factories.

In Germany, wages and working conditions in large industries are often determined through collective bargaining between trade unions and employers' associations. If the parties do not agree, strikes can strengthen their position before the next meetings. When discussing wage increases, not only the size, but also the timing of the entry into force of new rates is important, since the deferred increase does not cover the costs of employees immediately. Apart from salaries, job security and enterprise development plans are often negotiated. For industrial regions, the closure or reduction of production may affect not only plant workers, but also related companies and the local labor market.

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