German unions protest social reforms — Anadolu Agency

Trade unions in 15 major German cities held demonstrations on Saturday against social-sector reforms planned by the federal government. According to Anadolu Agency, the rallies were organized by the German Trade Union Confederation (DGB) together with several of its member unions.

Rallies in 15 cities

The protests were held under the slogan: “Your job, your health, your pension — you have earned them.” Thousands of people gathered outside Berlin City Hall. Participants held signs calling for money to be directed toward social services rather than war, for kindergartens to be funded instead of fighter jets, and criticizing Chancellor Friedrich Merz.

In a written statement, the DGB said that around 175,000 people in total took part in demonstrations across the country. The confederation emphasized that job security, quality healthcare and adequate pension payments must not be bargaining chips.

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The unions’ position

DGB Chair Yasmin Fahimi, speaking at a demonstration in Essen, criticized plans to reform the pension and healthcare systems, as well as calls to increase working hours. She said that unions would not allow social gains that workers had fought for over decades to be taken away.

According to Fahimi, cuts to social protection and additional burdens on workers will not help create a strong economy. She said this requires investment, proper pay, growing purchasing power, reliable economic conditions, preserving international competitiveness and modern infrastructure. The DGB said it opposes cuts to social benefits and restrictions on workers’ rights.