As the Federal Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs (BMAS) reports, an exchange took place on April 17 between the general works councils of the automotive industry and Federal Ministers Bas and Schneider. The meeting was held at the Federal Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs and served to discuss measures for job security in the automotive industry. According to the BMAS, the shared goal of fighting for every job was at the forefront, underscoring the urgency of the topic.
The general works councils, who act as representatives of employees at a cross-company level, exchanged views with Federal Labour Minister Bas and Federal Environment Minister Schneider. This dialogue between political decision-makers and workplace interest representatives aims to address challenges in the automotive sector and explore solution approaches. According to the BMAS, the importance of close cooperation was emphasized to shape the industry's transformation in a socially acceptable manner.
The focus of the discussion, as per the BMAS, was on current developments in the automotive industry, which is characterized by structural changes such as electromobility and digitalization. As the ministry reports, potential impacts on the employment situation were discussed. The general works councils brought forward their perspectives and concerns regarding job security, while the ministers addressed political initiatives and support possibilities.
The BMAS reports exclusively that the meeting is part of an ongoing series of dialogues to actively accompany the transformation in the automotive industry. According to the ministry, the exchange serves to set the course early for a future-proof industry that considers both ecological and social aspects. The general works councils of the automotive industry, who play a key role in co-determination, were thus able to directly present their concerns to the political leadership.
As the BMAS further elaborates, concrete fields of action were identified during the meeting to preserve jobs and create new employment opportunities. These include, among others, qualification measures for employees, adaptation to new technologies, and the promotion of innovations. The ministry emphasizes that close coordination between politics, companies, and employee representatives is essential to secure the long-term competitiveness of the automotive industry in Germany.
Finally, the BMAS points out that the exchange on April 17 is regarded as a constructive step in the joint effort for job security. The talks are to be continued to further accompany the dynamics in the automotive industry and develop sustainable solutions. Thereby, the ministry underscores the importance of continuous dialogue to cushion the structural change socially.
