Volkswagen Workers Protest Job Cuts and Wage Reductions

Tens of thousands of employees rally against proposed plant closures, layoffs, and a 10% pay cut as union leaders push for alternatives.

Over 100,000 Volkswagen employees participated in strikes across nine German plants, protesting management's plans to close three factories and cut wages by 10%.
IG Metall, Germany's largest industrial union, demands a job guarantee for 130,000 workers and rejects the proposed wage reductions and layoffs.
Union leader Christiane Benner criticized management's decisions and called for a focus on producing affordable cars, while suggesting executives take a 10% pay cut.
Volkswagen management insists on drastic cost reductions to fund future investments, citing declining sales in Europe and China as key challenges.
Both sides aim to reach a resolution before Christmas, but union leaders warn of escalating strikes in 2025 if no agreement is achieved.