Mobilization for the Group Collective Bargaining Agreement at the Turkish Metal Union: Representative Assemblies Meetings Completed

The Turkish Metal Union has accelerated its preparations for the Group CBA process, which is the largest collective bargaining agreement (CBA) in the private sector, to be negotiated with the Turkish Metal Industrialists' Union (MESS). On Monday, August 25, 2025, Representatives Assembly meetings were held in all branches of the union before the Presidents' Assembly, which will convene under the leadership of General President Uysal Altundağ.

Workers' Pulse Taken in Meetings

The meetings, which started on August 13 and continued throughout the week, brought together workplace union representatives working in MESS-affiliated workplaces. Branch presidents briefed shop stewards on the union's general strategy and updates on the process. However, the real importance of the meetings was that representatives took the floor one by one to voice their expectations and thoughts on the Group CBA proposal. Feedback from the field played a critical role in finalizing the draft.

Demand for a Wage that Doesn't Melt Against Inflation

One of the most emphasized issues at the meetings was protecting wages and increasing purchasing power, especially in the face of recent high inflation. The representatives demanded a contract that would raise the living standards of workers, stating that not only raises but also social rights and working conditions should be improved. Among these demands, items such as regulating working hours, increasing occupational health and safety measures and re-evaluating bonuses according to today's conditions stood out.

Future Concerns and Expectations of Young Workers

Young shop stewards who attended the meetings expressed particular concern about job security and career opportunities. It was emphasized that a fairer remuneration system should be established for newly hired workers or those at the beginning of their careers and that future-proof guarantees should be provided. Representatives demanded that the contract include clauses to increase the motivation of young workers for a sustainable working environment.

Emphasis on Broad Participation in the Contract Process

The Turkish Metal Union management stated that these meetings are an indicator of union democracy and ensure broad-based participation in the contract process. Branch presidents stated that the data collected will be comprehensively evaluated at the Presidents' Council and that each request from worker representatives will be meticulously examined. This process is expected to set an example for other collective labor agreements in Turkey.