City, district, trade unions and business present “Region of Enabling”
The Employers' Association of Southern Hesse, the German Trade Union Confederation of Southern Hesse, the City of Darmstadt and the district of Darmstadt-Dieburg have presented an update of their joint industrial and economic policy guidelines.
The document is entitled "The Region of Enabling" and aims to support future-oriented development in the region. The goal is to combine economic strength, good working conditions, and a high quality of life.
Securing industrial and economic locations
The partners involved emphasize that southern Hesse should remain a strong industrial location and be further expanded. This is based on close cooperation between business, trade unions, and the public sector.
Dirk Widuch, Managing Director of the South Hesse Business Association, sees particular challenges arising from digitalization and the decarbonization of industry. To remain competitive, the region needs favorable framework conditions, efficient infrastructure, and close cooperation with research institutions and start-ups.
Shaping social transformation
From the perspective of the DGB South Hesse, the social shaping of economic change is paramount. Regional director Jens Liedtke emphasizes that transformation can only succeed if it is implemented in a socially just manner.
Of particular importance are qualification, further training, and a strong dual vocational training system. Co-determination and good working conditions are also important prerequisites for successful economic development.
Strengthening Darmstadt as an innovation hub
For Hanno Benz, mayor of the science city of Darmstadt, the guiding principles are an important step towards further strengthening the region as a technology and science location.
The close collaboration between universities, research institutions, and companies forms a strong innovation ecosystem. The goal is to further expand this cooperation and underpin it with concrete projects.
Expand cooperation in the region
Klaus Peter Schellhaas, the district administrator of Darmstadt-Dieburg, also emphasizes the importance of cooperation. Challenges such as climate change or the shortage of skilled workers can only be overcome together.
The guiding principles are therefore intended to serve as a basis for further projects and initiatives. The partners announced that they will continue to provide transparent information about planned measures and involve further stakeholders from the business community and civil society.
(DARMSTADT – RED/PSD)
Featured image: Joint industrial and economic policy guidelines. Photo: City of Darmstadt
