Overview

• On June 6, the Greens and Left parties tabled separate motions to raise Germany’s hourly minimum wage from €12.82 to €15, arguing current rates leave employees below the poverty line.
• SPD spokespeople point to the Minimum Wage Commission’s guideline to set pay at 60 percent of the gross median wage and express confidence it will recommend around €15 in its June 30 decision.
• The CDU/CSU-SPD coalition agreement deems a €15 wage by 2026 achievable, while the Union insists the independent commission must lead the adjustment process.
• Employers warn that a sharp increase could strain businesses and jobs, but labor advocates highlight rising living costs and a German Trade Union Confederation survey showing two-thirds public support for €15.
• SPD leaders have threatened to pursue a legislative increase if the commission’s recommendation falls short, and any approved rate must be enacted into law by the government.