Mechanical engineers vented their anger in Berlin and confronted the Chancellor head-on. The industry summit turned into a scene of anger and open confrontation. Businessmen spoke of stalled projects, a lack of reforms, and a worsening economic crisis.
“Angry and disappointed” – Mechanical engineers are turning to confrontation
VDMA President Bertram Kawlath put his finger on the sore spot. He declared that the mood in the industry was “angry and disappointed.” While the Chancellor is listening, companies are expecting decisive reforms long ago. Instead of clarity, there are endless discussions, while jobs are being put at risk.
Photo by Tobias SCHWARZ / AFP
The mechanical engineers felt compelled to speak out. They questioned the government’s credibility and made it clear that patience and trust have largely run out.
Bureaucracy stifles the economy
Criticism was particularly harsh regarding permits. Projects now require up to 37 approvals, whereas 20 years ago, six were sufficient. For many entrepreneurs, this bureaucracy has become an insurmountable wall. It is blocking investments and exacerbating the economic crisis.
Kawlath made it clear: “We need a policy that doesn’t promise, but delivers.” The applause from the ranks of the mechanical engineers showed how deeply this statement resonated with the mood in the hall.
Chancellor on the Defensive
Friedrich Merz reacted defensively. The Chancellor pointed to tax relief, including the triple 30 percent depreciation for investments. At the same time, he spoke of the necessary reduction in bureaucracy. But many listeners felt his arguments were too weak in view of the urgent reforms.
The economic crisis is exacerbating impatience. Businesses are demanding clear language, but the Chancellor is pointing to processes and long-term solutions. This reinforces the impression that politicians are not adequately grasping the seriousness of the situation.
Structural Problems with No Quick Solution
Merz admitted that Germany has a “fundamental growth problem.” He pointed to the citizen’s income and the strain on the healthcare system. One billion doctor visits a year are a “dubious record.” He thus indirectly hinted at a return to the practice fee.
But the mechanical engineers don’t want debates about distant concepts, but tangible reforms. The persistent bureaucracy and stalled action are fueling their anger. For them, one thing is clear: the economic crisis requires action, not political maneuvering.
Chancellor Under Massive Pressure
In closing, Merz emphasized: “I know what this is about.” But the reactions in the room made it clear that these words hardly engendered trust. The mechanical engineers demand results, not promises.
The combination of growing bureaucracy, stalled reforms, and a profound economic crisis has almost completely exhausted the industry’s patience. The Chancellor is under massive pressure – and the mechanical engineers’ anger could soon erupt in open resistance.