Positions of interest groups towards labour market reforms in Germany: A novel content analysis of press releases

Abstract

Unions, employers’ associations, and social welfare organizations can play an important role in reforming labour markets. This study investigates the positions of organized interests towards labour market regulations, active labour market policies, and minimum wages in Germany. It estimates the interest groups’ policy positions with a content analysis of press releases covering the period from 2009 to 2014. It finds that unions pursue different strategies depending on their (potential) membership. The service unions in Germany strongly advocate the minimum wage while industrial unions focus on stricter regulation of atypical employment. The positions of social welfare organizations are shaped by their dual role as representatives of the marginalized and as employers in the social sector.