Christiane Benner, the leader of the largest German trade union, has strongly criticized Chancellor Friedrich Merz (CDU) following his recent remarks regarding the state pension. Speaking to the “Süddeutsche Zeitung”, Benner reacted sharply to Merz’s assertion that the statutory pension system can only serve as a basic safety net, calling the statement irresponsible. She made clear that her union rejects any form of cuts to the common pension.
Benner stressed that millions of working people depend on this income source. While acknowledging that labor unions support structural reforms, she stated that they absolutely oppose any measure that makes employees poorer.
The union boss also warned that the trade union movement is prepared to stage demonstrations if the federal government pushes certain unacceptable limits. She listed specific policy areas that would trigger protests, including pension reductions, which she described as a major flashpoint, and discussions surrounding mandatory “karenztage”-days off for sick workers that might result in no pay, a controversial topic long debated in Germany.
Regarding economic relief, Benner welcomed the federal government’s reduction of mineral oil taxes following the Iranian conflict, noting that this measure is helping to lower gasoline prices. Concerning a proposal that allows employers to pay out a tax-free bonus of €1,000 to employees, Benner agreed that financial relief is welcome. However, she pointed out that during the previous bonus payment in 2022, the government had coordinated the proposal with unions and employers. This time, she criticized the government for merely telling employers to “pay it”.
She warned that if the bonus is not distributed quickly, there could be significant disappointment among employees. Benner reiterated that her union’s primary demand remains permanent wage increases. Finally, looking ahead to the autumn wage round for four million workers in the metal and electrical industry, she asserted that the unions are completely prepared for strikes and possess a substantial strike fund.
