The trade union federation opposes cuts in the social sector and demands stronger funding for the welfare state
The German Trade Union Confederation (DGB) Darmstadt-Dieburg is calling on employees and residents of Darmstadt and the surrounding district to participate in a demonstration in Frankfurt am Main on Saturday, September 26, 2026. Under the motto "Hard-earned! Your work. Your health. Your pension," the trade union federation intends to demonstrate for the preservation and strengthening of the welfare state. Details regarding the time, meeting point, and travel arrangements will follow.
The local party branch is particularly opposed to cuts in pensions, healthcare, and social benefits. Instead, it calls for, among other things, increased investment in public infrastructure and greater financial contributions from high earners, large fortunes, and large inheritances.
The German Trade Union Confederation (DGB) Darmstadt-Dieburg warns of the consequences of social cutbacks
“We strongly disagree with the claim that cuts to pensions, healthcare, and social benefits are unavoidable,” explains Peter Grünig, deputy chairman of the DGB district association Darmstadt-Dieburg. Anyone who weakens the welfare state jeopardizes social cohesion and trust in democratic institutions.
The German Trade Union Confederation (DGB) also sees social security as a factor for a stable democracy. If people feel they are being left alone with their worries, this can lead to insecurity that is exploited by right-wing extremist forces, according to Grünig.
Demands regarding pensions, care and public infrastructure
The demands of the district association include securing funding for child and youth welfare services as well as integration assistance. Among the measures mentioned are school support for children and young people with disabilities and the right to choose one's preferred living arrangements.
In pension policy, the DGB (German Trade Union Confederation) is calling for the stabilization and increase of the pension level to up to 53 percent. The current retirement age and the pension without deductions after 45 years of contributions should be maintained.
Furthermore, the trade union federation opposes any weakening of the eight-hour workday and a blanket reduction of public sector jobs. Instead, it calls for investments in affordable housing, public transportation, care, education, and collectively bargained jobs. A universal, solidarity-based health and long-term care insurance system is also among the proposals.
(RED/PM/Peter Grünig)
