Volkswagen Faces Imminent Warning Strikes Amid Rising Tensions

Volkswagen is on the brink of warning strikes following the expiration of a peace obligation in its ongoing collective bargaining conflict. The situation has escalated as the company proposes significant wage cuts and potential plant closures affecting 120,000 employees.

IG Metall, the labor union, has signaled strong support for the strikes, with works council chairwoman Daniela Cavallo anticipating widespread participation. Despite presenting alternatives for cost relief, including a future fund, Volkswagen has rejected these proposals.

Negotiations are scheduled to resume on December 9, while IG Metall's negotiating leader, Thorsten Gröger, emphasizes the need for impactful strikes that the company cannot overlook. This conflict represents a critical moment for Volkswagen, as it seeks to adjust to new economic realities while facing employee discontent over job security and pay.