Legendary trade unionist Karl Dürtscher died - grief for a fighter

Legendary trade unionist Karl Dürtscher died - grief for a fighter

Österreich - On May 26, 2025, Karl Dürtscher, an outstanding trade unionist and chief negotiator of the GPA, died. The federal division industry in the Austria Chamber of Commerce (WKÖ) is deeply affected by its death. Federal division chairman Sigi Menz and division manager Andreas Mörk appreciate Dürtscher as an important representative of the social partnership on the employee side. He was known for his so-called "hands-chest quality" and its pragmatic approach, especially with important social partnership issues such as corona short-time work.

Dürtscher had negotiated over 170 collective contracts that were largely for the metal and the electronics industry. He has been the federal manager of the GPA since 2018 and was committed to the concerns of his union throughout his life. Despite a serious illness that plagued him, he remained active and took part in social partnership dates. Menz and Mörk emphasize that they will honor Dürtscher's memory and are with his family, friends and companions during this period of loss.

appreciation of colleagues

Barbara Teiber, the chairwoman of the GPA, described Dürtscher as experienced colleagues and reliable negotiators. His skills in the field of negotiations were legendary, especially in the metal industry. He was also involved in the self -administration of social security. In addition to his role as a GPA chief disabilities

historical context of collective contracts

The work of Karl Dürtscher took place in the context of a long history of collective contracts that represent one of the most important achievements of the union movement in Austria. Collective contracts are negotiated by advocacy groups to achieve better income and working conditions for industries or companies. The first collective agreement negotiations began in the second half of the 19th century, with significant milestones such as the first comprehensive collective agreement for book printer in 1896.

The collective agreement law, which was passed in 1947, previously highlighted existing regulations and ensured that the rights of employees were protected. Today around 450 collective contracts are concluded annually, a number that underlines the continuous relevance of these rules for the world of work. One of the most important laws that regulate working conditions in Austria is also the Work Constitutional Act (ArbVG), which codes standards for regulating wage and working conditions.

The basic rights to the formation of unions and collective agreement negotiations are recognized internationally, including the European Social Charter and Article 11 of the European Convention on Human Rights. These framework conditions would not have obtained the meaning they have today without fighters like Karl Dürtscher.

The WKO and the GPA are faced with a profound change due to the loss of Karl Dürtscher. His commitment and handshake will be remembered.