Solidarity is rewarding

The economic situation in Germany is always a item of reflection for development and the changes regarding the recession in Europe. According to recent forecasts by the International Monetary Fund 2013 GDP growth rate in Germany is expected to fall from 0.6% to 0.3% because of uncertainties in the Eurozone. However, slow recovery is expected by the end of the year, owing to tangible reduction of uncertainties at European level. The International Monetary Fund made known that Germany’s financial reforms are meant to ensure harmonization with European initiatives thus providing a clearer picture vis a vis emerging financial landscapes. Massimo Lavena for SIR Europe interviewed Marie-Luise Dött, president of the Federation of German Catholic entrepreneurs, BKU, a voluntary-based association of Catholic entrepreneurs and experts in the economy and social issues in Germany. BKU, established on March 27 1949 during the complex post-war reconstruction of Germany destroyed by Naziism, now has 1300 members. The purpose of the Federation is to provide a serious contribution of Christian responsibility in the establishment of German economy and of a social human order that is respectful of shared responsibility marked by solidarity. In the light of the Christian vision of economy, how can the differences between the local economic situation and European demands be addressed? "According to our estimates, German enterprises fall within European standards. On the whole, as can be seen in our country’s current trend, such European standards did not represent an obstacle to the development of German economy". What are the prospects of Germany vis a vis the expectations of Europe and of the international economic realm as a whole? "As compared to most of our European neighbours, German economy was recently marked by a positive trend and it is expected that this trend will continue also in the short run". How do German Catholics intend to solve the problems of unemployment? "Christian enterprises in Germany are aware of their social responsibilities towards employees. Also during the crisis they defended the interests of their employees. Normally, for Christian businesses, redundancies are the last resort. The economic growth that ensued showed that enterprises have taken advantage from this approach. In fact, they rapidly recovered".How can economic solidarity intensify? "Solidarity is rewarding. It our message, aimed at promoting widespread solidarity. In fulfilling their social responsibilities towards their employees, Christian enterprises in Germany availed themselves of job market tools, such as part-time working hours, continual wages (also during sick leaves) etc. In this way, policymakers and enterprises have given their contribution to obtain a positive evolution of the German job market, based on solidarity".