Metallgesellschaft Advocates for Adopting a Compressed Working Week Structure - Labor union IG Metall retracts push for four-day work week.
Union IG Metall Temporarily Shelves Four-Day Workweek Demand
In the present economic climate, Germany's largest Metalworkers' Union, IG Metall, has temporarily abandoned its push for a four-day workweek with full pay compensation. In an interview with the "Bild" newspaper, union chairman Christiane Benner stated that a four-day workweek is currently not a top priority for IG Metall.
Benner acknowledged that the idea remains sensible, but emphasized the pressing challenges faced by many companies. She pointed out that employers are the ones reducing working hours, to the detriment of employees.
The four-day workweek faces criticism from the industry, particularly when considering a comprehensive implementation with full pay compensation. A survey conducted by the Institute of the German Economy (IW) found that 94% of the 823 companies surveyed would lose productivity under such a model, with nearly 70% concerned about the buildup of work and potential loss of Germany's international competitiveness.
IG Metall has long advocated for companies to assume responsibility for future-proof business models, investments, and secure jobs. However, Benner noted that many companies lack long-term strategies and are failing to make the necessary investments.
Berlin, March 28 (Bild-Zeitung) - Christiane BennerIG MetallMetallBerlinBild-Zeitung
In light of the pressing challenges faced by EC countries' industries, IG Metall has shifted its focus away from the four-day workweek demand. Instead, the union is emphasizing the importance of vocational training and investments for future-proof business models. On the other hand, the financial implications of a four-day workweek with full pay compensation are causing concern among businesses, as indicated by the survey by the Institute of the German Economy (IW).
