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DGB demands measures against job loss in Saxony

DGB demands measures against job loss in Saxony

In this image there is a train on the tracks, to the right of the train there are tracks on the...
In this image there is a train on the tracks, to the right of the train there are tracks on the surface, to the left of the train there are trees, electric poles, cars and buildings, on top of the electric poles there are cables, in front of the train there is a bridge and there is smoke coming out of the train.

DGB demands measures against job loss in Saxony - DGB demands measures against job loss in Saxony

Saxony is struggling to hold on to its skilled workforce. Lower wages, poor working conditions, and weak collective bargaining coverage are driving employees away. The German Trade Union Federation (DGB) has now called for urgent action from politicians and employers to reverse the trend before more workers leave the region for good.

The state’s economic challenges are growing. Unemployment is on the rise, while job vacancies—especially in industry and temporary work—are shrinking. At the same time, more Saxons are commuting to other states for better pay and conditions, highlighting a deepening retention problem.

Only 41% of employees in Saxony currently work under collective agreements, far below the national average. The DGB warns that many employers still cling to an outdated 'master-of-the-house' mentality, failing to adapt their personnel policies. Regional chair Markus Schlimbach stressed that politicians must move beyond announcements and take concrete steps—starting with tackling high industrial electricity prices. Saxony’s CDU-SPD minority government, backed by the Greens and The Left, has proposed measures in the 2025 budget to strengthen the economy. Plans include targeted investments in microelectronics and automotive sectors, as well as efforts to secure Volkswagen’s future in the region. Another key initiative is designating Lausitz as Europe’s first Net Zero Valley, aiming to attract green industry and sustainable growth. The DGB is pushing for a broader push in the new year. Their demands focus on securing quality jobs, upholding democracy, and fostering social cohesion. Without swift action, they warn, Saxony risks losing even more skilled workers to other regions.

The state government’s proposed investments and the DGB’s calls for reform come as Saxony faces a critical moment. If wages and working conditions do not improve, the exodus of skilled labour is likely to continue. The coming months will show whether political and economic measures can turn the tide.

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