Coalition Clash Over Collective Bargaining Compliance Act

The traffic light coalition is embroiled in a heated debate over the Collective Bargaining Compliance Act. The SPD advocates for a law requiring companies that work for the federal government to adhere to collective bargaining agreements. However, the FDP is blocking the draft, arguing that it would lead to increased bureaucracy. SPD leader Saskia Esken has openly criticized the FDP's stance, while the DGB, the CDU's social wing, and the Left Party are calling for swift implementation.

The European minimum wage directive, which aims to achieve 80% collective bargaining coverage, must be implemented by the end of November. Ver.di chief Frank Werneke has warned that failing to pass the law would seriously damage the political credibility of the coalition. The Confederation of German Employers' Associations has also voiced concerns, criticizing what they see as the Ministry of Labor's extreme positions.

Despite the urgency, the Ministry of Finance reports that no final compromise has been reached. They also accuse the Ministry of Labor of prematurely seeking public attention. The draft law aims to ensure fair competition in public procurement, but the ongoing dispute within the coalition casts doubt on its future. As the deadline approaches, the pressure mounts on the traffic light coalition to resolve their differences and uphold their commitments.