The German Confederation of Trade Unions (DGB) announced the passing of its former Chairman, Michael Sommer, on Monday. He was 73 years old.
Sommer, a steadfast advocate for solidarity and fairness within the working environment, passed away overnight. Throughout his career, he championed the principle of unity within the labor movement.
The DGB highlighted Sommer’s unwavering commitment, noting his passionate decades-long campaign against the Hartz IV reforms and the expansion of precarious employment. He is particularly recognized for his significant political achievement: the successful implementation of a statutory minimum wage, introduced a year after his departure from the leadership role.
Michael Sommer served as Chairman of the DGB from 2002 to 2014. Prior to this, he played a crucial role in the formation of the services trade union Verdi in 2001, subsequently being elected as its Deputy Federal Chairman. His contributions to German labor policy are widely acknowledged.
