#ALL TOGETHER NOW

GDBA trade union conference convenes in Chemnitz, Europe's cultural capital 

Chemnitz, May 21, 2025 - Under the motto "All Together Now", the GDBA trade union conference (formerly the Cooperative Day) took place in the cultural capital of Chemnitz from May 19 to 21. 

Around 150 delegates came together to set the course for the union's work. At the same time, Executive President Lisa Jopt was confirmed in office with over 90% and elected for a further 4 years. In her annual report, she highlighted the collective bargaining successes, the growing membership (over 45%) and the successful expansion of the union's infrastructure over the past four years. The most important collective bargaining successes during this time were 

-> Salary increase, introduction of a first salary level and dynamization of both salary levels. This means an increase of 45% within 3 years for career starters and an increase of around 55% for employees in their 3rd year of employment. 

-> The first collective agreement for employed guests - the TV Gast.
 

-> "Working time" partial agreement - more relief and predictability for employees.  

The termination of the NV Bühne collective agreement was a historic change of course that gave one of Germany's oldest trade unions a new, professional self-image: combative, assertive and future-oriented.  

In addition, various motions on the statutes and collective bargaining policy were adopted: In future, the GDBA will also commit itself in its statutes to the protection of artistic freedom, the diversity of the theater landscape and the promotion of diversity in culture. Furthermore, the incompatibility of GDBA membership with active membership in the AfD or its affiliated organizations was established. 

In terms of collective bargaining policy, they spoke out in favor of better conditions for assistants and trainees, among other things. In addition, the reform of the non-renewal clause is to be negotiated as a priority.  

The GDBA reception was also part of the trade union conference. Chemnitz Mayor of Culture Dagmar Ruscheinsky welcomed the invited guests alongside Pascal Anselmi from Kulturhauptstadt Chemnitz 2025 gGmbH. Both gave an impressive insight into the development of the Capital of Culture project.  

The only fly in the ointment is the cultural policy situation in Saxony: municipal budgets are extremely tight and the state budget has still not been approved. If grants to the theaters are not increased despite rising inflation, general inflation and wage increases, this is tantamount to a cut. This affects artistic employees and production budgets in particular.  

In response, the delegates expressed their solidarity with the affected stages via a video message. In doing so, they are showing their support: The union is united, determined and ready to play an active role in shaping the coming years - All Together Now. 

These press photos may be published freely, provided the photographer Anna Spindelndreier is credited.