DGB expects several thousand participants at a demonstration against social cuts in Frankfurt

The German Federation of Trade Unions (DGB) is expecting several thousand participants in a demonstration against social cuts in Frankfurt today. Under the motto “Hard earned! Your work. Your health. Your Pension” a rally is initially planned on Willy-Brandt-Platz (11 a.m.). A demonstration will then start through the city center. The DGB Hesse-Thuringia expects up to 10,000 people.

“The welfare state is not a voluntary service, but the result of the hard work of millions of employees,” says DGB district chairman Michael Rudolph. “Anyone who pays contributions month after month is entitled to good health care, social security and a reliable pension.” The unions opposed the federal government's reform plans, which were at the expense of employees.

Instead, the DGB is calling for more investment in infrastructure, a statutory pension level of at least 50 percent and more efficient use of funds in the health system. Protests are planned in a total of 15 major cities nationwide.