Yasmin Fahimi, the chairwoman of the German Trade Union Federation (DGB), has called for nationwide protests against the federal government’s social reforms, urging a fundamental shift in political direction. Addressing the “Rheinische Post” (Friday edition), Fahimi stated, “We want to get angry feelings onto the streets and show that these social reforms interfere with hard-earned benefits. The welfare state is not charity; it is earned through contributions.” Consequently, the DGB has initiated calls for demonstrations across the country on September 26.
The federal government plans various downgrades concerning work, pensions, and healthcare. The DGB leader firmly believes this approach is “profoundly unjust” and lacks popular support. Fahimi stressed the necessity of change, adding, “The political course must change. It is our duty to mobilize the trade union strength for that goal and push for solutions built on solidarity.” She argued that the challenges posed by demographics cannot be solved simply by cutting benefits.
Fahimi also criticized the government for intending to adopt the recommendations of the Pension Commission wholesale. While acknowledging the need for reform, she believes the crucial changes must occur within the existing structures. She issued a strong warning against organizing healthcare and care services increasingly as profit-driven business models. In her view, health is not a commodity, and a hospital is not a factory.
Instead, she insisted that the provision of services must be oriented more strongly toward the common good. She underscored the importance of preserving the current retirement age of 63, as well as maintaining increases to parental benefits. To bolster the federal subsidy for pension insurance, Fahimi proposed that higher taxes be placed on high-earners, heirs, and the wealthy. She pointed out that current laws continue to heavily privilege the very affluent in Germany due to the lack of a wealth tax and the special protection afforded to large inheritances. “In this exceptional historical situation, there is a need for an additional wealth tax,” she demanded.
