Concerns are mounting over the potential for a renewed decline in industrial activity within eastern Germany, prompting a strong warning from the IG Metall trade union. In a statement released following a regional governors’ conference, the union’s four eastern districts cautioned against significant risks to democratic stability stemming from further site closures and job losses. The union emphasized a desire to avoid repeating the difficult experiences of the 1990s.
IG Metall highlighted the crucial role industry plays in regional prosperity and social cohesion. Following substantial industrial decline after reunification, significant employment was gradually re-established, particularly within the automotive sector through the construction of new manufacturing facilities. The steel and rail vehicle construction industries were also cited as vital contributors to the regional economy and job creation.
To safeguard the industrial base, the IG Metall districts are advocating for several concrete measures. These include renewed commitments from businesses to maintain operations in eastern Germany, the implementation of a reduced electricity price of 5 cents per kilowatt-hour for industrial users and accelerated investment in renewable energy infrastructure. Thorsten Gröger, a regional IG Metall leader, stated that eastern Germany possesses the resources to lead the transition toward new industrial processes and that preventing further deindustrialization must be a collective priority.
