German Trade Union Federation Rejects Proposal for Looser Protection for Older Workers
The German Trade Union Federation (DGB) has rejected a proposal by the economic advisor to the Federal Minister of Finance, Lars Klingbeil, to loosen the protection for older workers in the event of termination of employment. According to DGB board member Anja Piel, the proposal would be a “second-class labor law” for retirees and a “free pass for employers at the expense of employees.” Piel stated in an interview with the “New Osnabrück Times” that there is no “concert for employers” when it comes to labor rights.
Jens Südekum, the economic advisor, had suggested in the “Time” magazine that the protection for older workers be relaxed, arguing that the current system is a reason why companies do not continue to employ older workers because they believe they cannot be let go. He believes that more flexibility is needed and plans to present his proposal to Finance Minister Klingbeil.
The DGB, however, sees the proposal as going in the wrong direction. According to Piel, the suggestion would “under the guise of bureaucracy reduction, chop away at the rights of employees.” Older workers, in particular, need special protection, Piel emphasized. The proposal would increase the risk of older workers having to take on the same job with worse conditions after reaching a arbitrarily set age limit, Piel warned.
The DGB categorically rejects any idea of special termination rights and more fixed-term contracts for older workers and retirees, Piel said. There are already sufficient opportunities to continue to employ employees beyond the regular retirement age, Piel added.
In general, Piel emphasized the need for fair and secure working conditions for all generations, stating that “employers on the hunt for skilled workers must finally adapt to the new reality: they have the power to offer older employees good work, age-appropriate workplaces, further training and strong social protection and to keep them in the company.