In the last few month, we were approached by African coworkers in our funktion as union representatives regarding their problems in the workplace, some of which include the following issues:
- Not getting paid for overtime
- No night shift premiums
- Increase of work volume to the point that it is possible to complete all tasks within regular working hours
Of course we are familiar with these issues as German employees as well, but sometimes our African collegues seem a litte more insecure and hesitant. They might not know the best way to defend themselves effictively and completely here in Germany. Couple this with more specific problems, such as language difficulties that are not taken into account – their employers don ́t confirm whether instructions have truly been understood.
This may have legal consequences (such as being fired) for the employees.
We are members of the international union IWW here in Germany and we meet in the Allerweltshaus here in Cologne. You may reach us at 0176/38921560. Perhaps you know us from the UK. You can also visit our websites, www.iww.org.uk or www.wobblies.de (mailto: cologne1<at>wobblies.de) Give us a call or just stopp by – or make an appointment with us! Of course we are no providers of free legal services, but if you are looking for support, legal competence, come to the right place.
We come from many different industries: We have carpenters, caretakers, media employees, waiters, temporary employees, hotel employees, computer engineers and more!
JOIN US! JOIN THE ONE BIG UNION!
AN INJURY TO ONE IS AN INJURY TO ALL!
IWW Köln 