VNR 2025 Contribution by Deutscher Gewerkschaftsbund (DGB)

The 2025 revision of the German Sustainable Development Strategy strengthens the aspect of Decent Work for the first time by including collective bargaining coverage as a key indicator. This acknowledges the fact that Decent Work, strong trade unions and works and staff councils are essential prerequisites for both combating poverty (SDG 1) and reducing inequalities (SDG 5, SDG 10). They foster decent working conditions, fair wages, gender-equal pay and the enforcement of workers' rights. They form the foundation for a thriving economy that raises living standards globally and reduces poverty. The principle of Decent Work (SDG 8) is thus a key starting point for achieving many other Sustainable Development Goals.

The DGB and its affiliates are driving sustainable development forward through various projects and trade union initiatives. One example is the DGB-initiated project “Revierwende”. This project aims to actively support the structural transformation resulting from the coal phase-out at both the local and work-place levels, provide security in times of change and offer concrete support to people on the ground.