Berlin (dpa) - On May 1, 2025, Germany will witness a wave of demonstrations and events as trade unions and various organizations call on the public to join in marking International Labour Day, also known as Tag der Arbeit. The German Trade Union Confederation (DGB) has adopted the slogan “Mach dich stark mit uns!” (Make yourself strong with us!) to mobilize workers to demand higher wages and improved working conditions.
This day, celebrated as a public holiday across Germany, has its roots in the workers' movement, established as a day of struggle in 1890. Since then, it has become a significant occasion for advocating workers' rights, with thousands expected to participate in rallies nationwide.
According to the DGB, this year’s demonstrations are particularly crucial as many employees continue to face challenges related to wage stagnation and job security. The organization emphasizes the need for solidarity among workers to push for better conditions in the face of rising living costs and economic uncertainties.
In a related context, figures released by the Federal Statistical Office (Destatis) on the same day shed light on the working conditions of those who labor during weekends. The statistics reveal that 27 percent of Germany’s workforce operates outside the conventional Monday to Friday schedule, a reality that often goes unnoticed by those enjoying their weekends.
Hospitality workers dominate this group, with a staggering 70 percent of them clocking in on weekends. This is followed by employees in the arts and entertainment sector, where 55 percent work during these days. Other notable sectors include trade and automotive workshops (47 percent), agriculture (41 percent), healthcare (39 percent), and transportation (38 percent).
While 25 percent of workers are scheduled to work on Saturdays, this number drops to 15 percent on Sundays, when most shops and supermarkets remain closed. Only 6 percent of workers are on duty during public holidays.
Despite the challenges of working irregular hours, there are benefits for those who do. In Germany, employees who work on Sundays are entitled to a 50 percent pay increase, which is exempt from taxes. Furthermore, employers are required to grant at least 15 Sundays off each year. Workers engaged on public holidays can expect a 125 percent pay boost, also tax-free, with specific provisions for hours worked after 2 PM on December 24 and 31.
The DGB’s call to action on Labour Day highlights the ongoing struggle for fair treatment and equitable pay for all workers, regardless of their schedules. As unions rally support, they aim to remind the public of the contributions made by those who work behind the scenes, often sacrificing their weekends for the convenience of others.
As the celebrations unfold, the DGB encourages all citizens to reflect on the importance of workers' rights and the need for collective action to ensure that every worker is valued and compensated fairly. The demonstrations aim not only to honor those who have fought for labor rights in the past but also to galvanize support for future efforts to improve working conditions across all sectors.
In conclusion, as May Day approaches, the significance of this day remains as vital as ever, reminding us that the fight for workers' rights is ongoing. The DGB's slogan resonates with the call for unity and strength among workers, urging them to stand together in the pursuit of better wages and working conditions.
