The German Confederation of Trade Unions (DGB) announced the passing of its former long-standing chairman, Michael Sommer, on Monday. He was 73 years old.
Throughout his career, Sommer was a consistent advocate for solidarity and fairness within the world of work. The DGB highlighted his deep commitment to the principle of unity within the trade union movement.
A statement from the DGB emphasized his passionate and sustained opposition to the Hartz IV reforms and the proliferation of precarious employment. Among his most significant achievements, the confederation noted, was his instrumental role in securing the introduction of a statutory minimum wage – a measure implemented a year following his departure from the chairmanship.
Sommer served as chairman of the DGB from 2002 until 2014. Prior to this, in 2001, he played a key role in the establishment of the services trade union Verdi, subsequently being elected as its deputy federal chairman.