Hundreds of Steelworkers and Metalworkers Protest in Duisburg for 4% Pay Hike
In Duisburg, hundreds of steelworkers and metalworkers gathered at the stadium for a unique drive-in protest, honking their horns and enjoying live music, films, and speeches. IG Metall, the largest trade union in Germany, organized this event due to pandemic restrictions, demanding a 4% pay increase for around 3.8 million industry employees nationwide. The union also seeks more co-determination rights in strategic decisions.
After five rounds of negotiations, no agreement has been reached. IG Metall, led by Christiane Benner in the latest talks, is pushing for alternative solutions like compensation for reduced working hours in companies facing economic challenges. The union criticizes the employers' offer, which includes only a one-time payment and a percentage increase not until the second half of 2022. Around 1,000 employees from metal and electrical companies in Duisburg showed their support by participating in the drive-in protest.
IG Metall continues to fight for better wages and working conditions, with the drive-in protest serving as a creative way to rally support during the pandemic. The union's demands for a 4% pay increase and more co-determination rights remain unmet, with negotiations ongoing.
