Verdi leader Frank Werneke has indicated that the union is prepared to stage protests against the reform plans proposed by Federal Minister Friedrich Merz of the CDU. Speaking on Sunday during the ARD program “Report from Berlin” Werneke stated that the union remains uncompromising regarding certain policy areas, specifically dismissing suggestions that labor rights should be dismantled. According to Werneke, the union cannot agree to measures such as the abolition of the eight-hour workday, nor can it accept an increase in the retirement age or a reduction in the pension level. He warned that while there are clear lines that will lead to protests if crossed, other areas require discussion.
The union head identified the company pension scheme as an area needing urgent reform, noting that currently only about half of the employees in Germany have access to one. Additionally, Werneke highlighted the need for discussions concerning the future of the healthcare and care system.
Werneke also criticized Minister Merz for allegedly only inviting unions and employers to a joint meeting a year into his role. He compared this process unfavorably to previous administrations, such as those under Angela Merkel and Olaf Scholz, which frequently held collaborative roundtables within the Chancellery. Despite this criticism, he acknowledged that the current dialogue round is beneficial. Nevertheless, Werneke expressed skepticism, saying he does not see evidence that the Chancellor is actively seeking a consensus, particularly with the union’s input.