Christiane Benner, the chairman of the IG Metall, has expressed her concerns about the upcoming government formation in Germany, especially in regards to the SPD party base and the Union party committees. She emphasized that any failure in the government formation process would be disastrous for the country, as Germany cannot afford to have a stalemate. Benner also stated that there are enough critical points in the coalition agreement, but no alternative to it. She believes that the agreement is generally balanced and has achieved a lot for employees, from co-determination to the commitment to collective bargaining.
The IG Metall chief demands that the new government should immediately address the important topics outlined in the agreement. She emphasizes the need for both economic and security policies to come together for a common stance. She believes that Germany must speak with a strong voice within Europe and that Europe should also speak with a strong voice worldwide. Additionally, she stresses the importance of stabilizing democracy and maintaining cohesion over polarization. Benner believes that CDU chief Friedrich Merz must demonstrate his intention to bring the country together, which is not easy in the current climate and debate surrounding the AfD.
The situation of small and medium-sized industrial enterprises is described by the trade unionist as “absolutely dramatic.” Currently, a number of component manufacturers are going out of business and entire regional structures are collapsing. Benner warns that the innovative network of suppliers that has made Germany strong is in danger. The planned tax deductions for investments by the future coalition are important, but the existential issue is financing. Many businesses are no longer able to obtain loans for future investments due to the large economic uncertainty. Benner urges the new government to act quickly to address this issue.