Johannes Winkel, chairman of the Young Union (JU), strongly criticized the behavior of union members during Chancellor Merz’s address at the DGB Congress in Berlin. Speaking to the “Rheinische Post” (Wednesday edition), Winkel stated, “The hysterical reaction of the DGB officials with whistles and screaming was shameful”. The Member of the Bundestag added that the Chancellor had, in fact, candidly and openly sought support to ensure the social state remains fit for the future, requiring cooperation among businesses and labor unions. According to Winkel, “This was the right tone”.
At the DGB Federal Congress, Chancellor Friedrich Merz (CDU) had received significant boos and laughter during his approximately 30-minute speech. Merz appealed for support for deep structural changes in the social security system, announced the modernization of works councils and corporate co-determination, and called for a broad societal effort. Simultaneously, he issued a stern warning about the potential consequences of years of reform stagnation.
The remarks that drew criticism included his claim that any necessary changes “are actually not too significant” when measured against the “great degree of social security” already present in the country. Laughter erupted when the Chancellor stated that the reform plans lacked “any malice” on the part of him or the federal government.
