Germany’s IG Metall union has cleared a path for 24-hour warning strikes in the metal and electrical industries, but no full-day stoppages have been scheduled. Members at selected workplaces must first vote in favour before the union can call workers out for a full day.
IG Metall says 464,000 employees nationwide have already taken part in shorter warning strikes. It has not named the workplaces or dates for possible 24-hour action. No fourth round of collective bargaining has been agreed.
The union is seeking a five per cent pay rise over 12 months, along with stronger job-security provisions, profit-sharing and an additional social component for lower-paid employees. The employers’ current offer includes a one-off payment of a few hundred euros that could be withdrawn, plus a 1.3 per cent increase in wage scales in summer 2028.
About 640,000 people work in North Rhine-Westphalia’s metal and electrical industry, according to the regional employers’ association. The dispute therefore has major implications for industrial sites and employees across the state.
METALL NRW, the employers’ association, had described preparations for 24-hour strikes as disproportionate on 11 November. It said employers were open to discussing binding arrangements on investment, innovation, sites and jobs, although details remained unresolved.
The board’s decision does not mean strikes will start immediately. Any full-day action still depends on a vote by union members at the selected workplaces.
