The article discusses the longstanding presence of IG Metall at Audi's main plant in Ingolstadt and the experiences of works council chief Jörg Schlagbauer, highlighting the union's ability to navigate both boom times and crises. Recently, IG Metall managed to secure an agreement with management that no employees would be laid off for operational reasons during a period of workforce reduction. However, they are now facing a challenge from a right-wing organization called 'Zentrum,' which has ambitions to penetrate works councils in German companies. This group has made bold announcements about their intentions, raising questions about their feasibility and the implications for traditional unions such as IG Metall.

The 'Zentrum' aims to disrupt the status quo by targeting unions and securing positions within works councils during the upcoming elections. The article outlines the potential consequences of such an infiltration, particularly in the context of rising far-right sentiment in Germany. The authors question whether the 'Zentrum's' claims can withstand scrutiny and highlight the importance of continued solidarity among established labor organizations to counter these movements.

Overall, the article sheds light on the turbulent dynamics within German labor relations, illustrating the challenges faced by unions as they confront new, radical players in the political and industrial landscape. The outcome of the upcoming works council elections could significantly impact the strength and influence of traditional unions like IG Metall, as they navigate this new threat from right-wing elements in the workforce management arena.