Strong at work
Fair wages, secure jobs and respect in the workplace – that’s what we fight for every day. As Germany’s largest trade union confederation, we stand with 5.6 million people from all sectors and professions. Whether in an office, a factory or a hospital – we make sure your voice is heard. With courage and determination, we campaign for better working conditions and a world of work where everyone is treated fairly.
DGB/Hans-Christian Plambeck
They have to be fought for. And that’s only possible if workers have a strong voice – in the workplace and in society.
Who We Are
As the German Trade Union Confederation (DGB), we represent 5.6 million members from 8 trade unions, making us the strongest voice for employees in Germany. Since 1949, we have been leading the way with boldness, vigour and optimism as experts on labour issues, fighting for fairness and solidarity at work and in society. We stand behind workers in every profession and fight for their rights and interests.
We Fight to Ensure That No One Is Left Behind
The DGB is the voice of trade unions in politics, business and society. We are independent of political parties, but by no means politically neutral. As a strong representative of workers’ interests, we pursue clear goals with conviction: decent work for all, a fair distribution of income and wealth, and equal opportunities for everyone. We actively oppose all forms of discrimination and stand for a united, democratic Europe, as well as for peace and disarmament worldwide.
Together We Are Strong
Every four years, our Federal Congress convenes – the “workers’ parliament” comprising 400 delegates from the member unions. At this congress, the trade unions decide on our policies and elect the National Executive Board, which handles day-to-day business and, together with the Board, represents the DGB both internally and externally.
With nine DGB districts, 59 DGB regions and around 350 local and town associations, we are close to the workers we represent. Our experts stand up for trade union positions in parliaments and committees. We get involved wherever the interests of employees are at stake – in social security institutions, at the Federal Employment Agency, in health insurance funds, chambers of crafts, or labour and social courts.
Discover the Diversity of Our Trade Union Work
Our German website offers detailed background information on all trade union topics, news from the world of work and job-related services. Here you can stay up to date with everything from in-depth analyses to practical advice.
What We Have Achieved for You
Much of what we take for granted today was hard won: statutory codetermination through works councils and supervisory boards, higher wages through collective agreements, continued payment of wages in the event of illness, and the general statutory minimum wage. We have fought for paid holidays, maternity leave and protection against dismissal, and we defend the 8-hour day. We have worked with employers to shape Germany’s unique dual vocational training system. And we continue to fight: we are already campaigning today to secure better working conditions for tomorrow.
An International Trade Union Family
The DGB works closely with trade unions around the world and advocates internationally for decent work. We cooperate with the European Trade Union Confederation (ETUC), the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) and the International Labour Organization (ILO). We fight for stronger codetermination in the economy, the state and society – not just here, but worldwide.
Every day, we campaign for work that is dignified, fairly paid and future-proof. For all people, no matter where they come from or what passport they hold.