Works Council Election Basics

What is a Works Council?

The Works Council is the elected representation of all employees in our company. It has important co-determination rights regarding:

  • Working hours and vacation planning
  • Hiring and transfer of employees
  • Dismissals
  • Occupational safety and health protection
  • Further training
  • Company social benefits

Important: The Works Council works together with the employer – for the benefit of all employees!

Your Rights as a Voter

Am I eligible to vote?

YES, if you:

  • Are at least 16 years old
  • Are employed as an employee in our company
  • This also applies to:
    • Working students
    • Part-time employees
    • Fixed-term employees
    • Temporary agency workers (who have been working with us for more than 3 months)

Can I run as a candidate?

YES, if you:

  • Are at least 18 years old
  • Have been working in the company for at least 6 months
  • Are eligible to vote

How the Election Works

Election Principles

The election is:

  • Free – no one may influence you
  • Secret – no one will know who you voted for
  • Direct – you vote directly for the candidates
  • Equal – every vote counts equally

Voting Options

In person at the polling station: We will provide this information soon.

By postal vote: We will provide this information soon.

Election Protection – Your Rights

  • You may vote during working hours (without wage deduction)
  • No one may disadvantage you because of your vote or candidacy
  • The vote is secret – no one monitors your voting behavior
  • If you have questions or problems: Contact the Election Committee

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Do I have to vote?
No, voting is voluntary. But: Your vote is important!

Can I vote even if I only work part-time?
Yes, all employees aged 16 and over are eligible to vote.

Will my supervisor find out if I voted?
No, the vote is secret and no one checks that.

I’m a working student – does this affect me?
Yes! Working students are also eligible to vote and the Works Council also represents your interests.

What happens if I don’t vote?
Nothing – voting is voluntary. But you’re missing the chance to have a say.

Official Legal Sources

Works Constitution Act (BetrVG)

Main source: www.gesetze-im-internet.de (official service of the Federal Ministry of Justice)

Current status: Last amended by Article 1 of the Act of July 19, 2024 (BGBl. 2024 I No. 248)

Election Regulations (WO)

First Ordinance implementing the Works Constitution Act

Current status: Last amended by Article 1 of the Ordinance of October 8, 2021 (BGBl. I p. 4640)

Additional Source from the Federal Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs (BMAS)

Learn more:

Election Committee

Project Timeline