At the DGB Congress, Federal Labor Minister Bärbel Bas (SPD) adopted a largely non-confrontational tone, consciously refraining from making aggressive attacks on the Chancellor. Instead, she focused on painting a picture of profound transformation, echoing the Chancellor’s earlier points. Bas highlighted global challenges such as wars, tariffs, market uncertainties, high energy costs, and the rapid shift caused by artificial intelligence, while also referencing the Iran conflict. She acknowledged the deep concerns of many workers regarding job security, the practicality of commuting during high fuel price periods, and the overall ability to afford basic living expenses. Addressing this, Bas stated that the federal government must find joint solutions, admitting candidly that the path forward would not always be simple.
Although she addressed the immediate challenges, Bas also pointed out noticeable political differences between the Union and the SPD, particularly concerning crucial areas like pension standards, health insurance, workers’ rights, and working hours. Expressing her personal position, she emphasized that the SPD’s stance on working time is radical, even though it is mandated by the coalition agreement. She vowed to continue fighting for the protection of workers’ rights, particularly related to occupational safety and health.
Looking at achievements since the current government took office, Bas pointed to the increase in the minimum wage, stating that the process demonstrated the importance of functional social partnership. She highlighted the government’s commitment to investing €500 billion in infrastructure, digitalization, and modernization. Furthermore, she noted the passing of the “Tariftreuegesetz” (collective agreement loyalty law), which came into effect on May 1st, ensuring that public funds cannot be misused for wage dumping.
The Labor Minister also announced intentions to implement a national action plan dedicated to strengthening adherence to collective agreements. Another success cited was the extension of the pension payment line, a development she described as achieved despite significant political opposition. Regarding social policy reform, Bas insisted that “reform does not equal cuts”. She aims to make social security smarter, not smaller, and confirmed the full implementation of the proposals from the Social State Commission, confirming that the introduction of child benefits without application was already a positive step-a feat she credited to the support of labor unions.
In reference to her controversial remarks during a parliamentary inquiry last week, where she stated there was no immigration into German social systems, Bas expressed deep distaste for how far-right groups exploited different immigrant groups against each other. She stressed that refuge for those fleeing persecution, war, or terror, or those valued as skilled workers, are more than welcome. Simultaneously, she maintained a stern stance against the misuse of social benefits, stating that such exploitation must be combated because it harms those genuinely in need of support.
When critiquing the German economy, Bas advised against the notion that growth is achieved by diminishing worker protection, arguing instead that the foundational elements of economic success-investments, modernization, fair wages, co-determination, work safety, and social security-are essential. She called for an active industrial policy to protect crucial sectors like European steel from unfair foreign competition. Regarding AI, she warned against mass layoffs, suggesting that if managed correctly, it can be a genuine asset. She advocated for a mandatory employer data law, mandatory continuous training, co-determination rights, and a joint effort, ensuring AI develops with the employees, not against them.
Beyond industry, she addressed the crisis in the apprenticeship market, noting the imbalance between applicants and vacant positions, and stressing the need for employers to offer more opportunities, especially for young people requiring support. Finally, she called for improvements for women stuck in small-scale part-time work because the finances are unattractive, emphasizing the need for their invaluable labor experience. She concluded by calling for fair labor migration, free from exploitation or dumping wages, ensuring equal rights and mobility.
