Readers ask: How many people will be affected by layoffs?

A report regarding plans to cut around 200,000 jobs at German companies has sparked intense debate among readers. Many users consider this development to be much more serious than stated in the text. This shows the real burden facing workers, their families, and the economic environment throughout the region. There is also criticism that structural problems – for example in industrial and energy policy – ​​generally do not receive enough attention. Timeframe: Even gradual layoffs could have major social consequences – especially if important sectors such as the automotive industry are impacted.

Criticism of efforts to cover up the job market

Many readers reacted angrily to the statement that the announced layoffs were “not that dramatic.” From the user’s perspective, this assessment ignores the real consequences for those affected. Job loss – whether due to retirement, fluctuation, or outright layoff – remains existential for individuals. Many people are highly critical of the fact that the impact on families, suppliers and local economies is rarely discussed. Talk of generous severance payments or transition rules also raises contradictions: These mostly impact older workers, but not casual or precarious workers. Although figures from the Federal Employment Agency so far do not show a dramatic decline, uncertainty is increasing, especially in core industrial sectors.

“(…) Yes, it’s bad! It’s bad for each individual! And overall it’s still bad”” To the original comment

“(…) A reduction of 200,000 jobs not only impacts the people who lose their jobs, but also their families. This can easily unite more than half a million people. In addition, it reduces the purchasing power of the affected areas to no small extent. Local artisans and bakers are also taking note of this…” In the original comment

Criticism of politics and the economic situation

Most readers blamed politicians for the layoffs. The most important of these are high energy prices, a growing tax burden, and an excessive welfare state. Many users see the weakening of the economy as a result of wrong industrial policy decisions – for example in dealing with the car industry or through subsidies without a location connection. This dissatisfaction stemmed from concerns that Germany was losing economic substance while political decisions ignored reality. The fact that more and more industrial companies are relocating abroad reinforces this impression. For readers, this situation is an expression of economic inequality that is exacerbated by political mistakes.

“Well, almost 200,000 jobs will be lost in the next few years. This is just the beginning of deindustrialization, and there will be more to come after that.” For original comments

“One thing this article doesn’t mention: all the jobs lost here are mostly very high-paying jobs, whose taxes and contributions are used to feed a booming welfare state. Where jobs are created in return: the low-wage sector and, most importantly, the state.” For original comments

“All the cover-ups no longer help. Germany is no longer competitive, because of our excessive welfare state. Trade unions also contribute to this. Anyone who does not invest in education will be punished.” For original comments

Criticism of the consequences for the economy and society

Many readers focused not only on those directly affected, but also on the consequences of layoffs. The loss of high-paying jobs weakens the consumer climate, jeopardizes tax revenues, and strains city budgets. The danger of a long-term downward trend is growing, especially in structurally weak regions.

“Experience shows that for every job in a large company, 1-2 additional jobs depend on suppliers. If you include family members, this impacts about 1.5 million people. That sounds different.” For original comments

“There are also more than 100,000 temporary workers who are no longer working, and 100,000 people who have retired and no longer have jobs. The end of the social system when there are fewer and fewer people paying.” For original comments

Skepticism towards labor market statistics

Many readers doubt the importance of official labor market figures. Although overall employment was stable, many commentators reported layoffs, contract non-renewals or bankruptcies in their areas. Small and medium-sized companies in particular still escape public attention, while the debate focuses on large companies. Silent unemployment – ​​for example due to acts, qualifications or underemployment – ​​is not reflected statistically.

“Only large companies are mentioned. But how many companies had 150 to 600 employees and had to close is ignored here.” For original comments

“Whitewash. Apart from the 20,000 large companies that received industrial electricity prices, there were around 3 million other companies whose jobs were immediately lost (after the insolvency money ran out) due to increasing insolvency. But that is according to the Chancellor: Everything is fine, we are stable, we just need to hold a few more summit meetings with announcements and appoint a few more commissions. An increase in the unemployment rate by 1% from 2022 to half the level of 2008, The trend is increasing.” For original comments

Skepticism towards layoff representation

Many readers find the distinction between “downsizing” and actual layoffs compelling. Even those who are not immediately laid off may lose their jobs – for example due to fixed-term contracts, trainees not being hired, or work being outsourced. Some readers are concerned about the social consequences for employees in unsafe working conditions.

“Job layoffs are always downsizing. Bad employees are sorted out and it is explained to others that it can impact them too, which can have a motivating effect.” For original comments

“I don’t see this as a major wave of layoffs, but young and fully qualified engineers who plan to find work here will face much more difficult times.” For original comments

“(…) Although permanent workers are laid off less frequently, the contracts of many temporary workers who often work in the automotive industry are not renewed and workers therefore lose their jobs. Layoffs are also seen directly in temporary jobs.” For original comments

Skepticism towards industrial developments in the automotive industry

The article’s assessment that the crisis in the automotive industry was essentially the result of one’s own actions was met with contradiction. Many readers see the responsibility not in manufacturers, but in politicians. The transition to electric mobility was rushed, accompanied by questionable funding models and a lack of infrastructure. The fact that demand does not match expectations is the result of policies that ignore market conditions.

“Automakers are not slow in switching to electric. Sales are too slow. There is a lot of new car stock.” For original comments

“Many of these are domestically made because car manufacturers and suppliers were too slow to switch to electric mobility and are now being taken over by Chinese manufacturers.” This only applies to a small part. The reason is that, as is often the case, politicians have once again taken a second step before the first by banning internal combustion engines. But customers aren’t jumping on the bandwagon.” For the original comment

“(…) The fact that large companies have continued to carry out massive layoffs in Germany over a period of time may not sound spectacular when viewed in one year. However, at the same time we are experiencing the peak of corporate bankruptcies, and jobs – without severance payments – are disappearing relatively quickly…” In the original comment

Miscellaneous

A small part of the reader’s contribution cannot be given to a clear stance. Some broaden the topic – to questions about tax policy, international financial aid or personal experiences with the authorities.

“Severance pay of 300,000 euros is not unusual in DAX companies, but most of it goes to taxes. In addition, health and care insurance must be paid for 10 years up to the contribution assessment limit and the rest is taken up by inflation.” For original comments

Join the discussion: How do you assess the rational explanation for the current layoffs? Do you think concerns about welfare and social cohesion are justified – or do you view developments with more sobriety? Share your thoughts in the comments!