The SPD working group for employment (AfA) delivered a sharp critique of the reform programme announced by party leader Lars Klingbeil.
According to a resolution adopted by the AfA board on Friday, the Social Democrats have been strong whenever they supported people’s backs, not when they also tell workers that they “don’t work hard enough”. The AfA describes this narrative as a slap in the face to millions of employees who keep daily business running, take overtime, work shifts, raise children, care for relatives and yet are forced to flip every euro twice at the end of the month.
The board acknowledges that a powerful political push is needed – something Klingbeil is now attempting. However, many of his proposals, from extended fixed‑term contracts and expanded work hours to a new pension policy, raise serious social‑policy questions and conflict with the party’s own decisions.
The AfA urges the party head to stand beside unions and everyday workers. “The SPD must not give up its social‑democratic soul in favour of economic primacy” says AfA Federal Chair Cansel Kiziltepe. “Germany needs investment, industrial strength and relief for the working middle class – we agree on that. Those who believe growth can be achieved by pressuring workers misunderstand the reality in the factories”. “It’s the workers, not them, who keep this country running day after day” she added.
