Tensions between Tesla and Germany’s IG Metall union have intensified once again, with the union now filing a criminal complaint against the manager of Giga Berlin. The latest development marks a significant escalation in an ongoing dispute over alleged misconduct, workplace governance, and union representation at Tesla’s only European manufacturing facility.
According to IG Metall, the complaint targets André Thierig, managing director of Tesla’s German operations, accusing him of “spreading false allegations” against a union representative. The union claims Tesla wrongly accused one of its officials of secretly recording a confidential works council meeting earlier this month ahead of critical employee elections.
Dispute Stems From Alleged Recording Incident
The controversy began after Tesla accused an external IG Metall union representative of covertly recording an internal meeting at Giga Berlin. The company contacted local authorities, resulting in police detaining the individual and seizing a laptop as part of an investigation.
At the time, Thierig publicly addressed the incident, stating, “What has happened today at Giga Berlin is truly beyond words! An external union representative from IG Metall attended a works council meeting. For unknown reasons he recorded the internal meeting and was caught in action! We obviously called police and filed a criminal complaint!”
Tesla’s actions prompted authorities to open a case, with prosecutors reviewing evidence to determine whether any wrongdoing occurred.
However, IG Metall has strongly rejected Tesla’s claims, insisting the accusation is unfounded and damaging. The union says the representative has offered full cooperation with investigators, including providing access to his laptop, to demonstrate that no recording took place.
In a statement announcing its legal response, IG Metall district manager Jan Otto said, “If a company aggressively fights co-determination and union work, we defend ourselves by all means, including legal.”
The union has also requested a restraining order to prevent further statements it considers defamatory and is preparing additional legal action, including potential claims related to union suppression.
Rising Tensions Ahead of Works Council Elections
The dispute comes at a sensitive time for Giga Berlin, with works council elections scheduled for early March. These elections determine employee representatives who help oversee workplace conditions and act as a bridge between staff and management.
IG Metall has long advocated for stronger union protections and formal collective bargaining at Giga Berlin, though Tesla’s facility currently operates without a traditional collective agreement. While IG Metall maintains representation on the works council, Tesla’s relationship with the union has often been strained.
The union argues that the allegations could influence employee perceptions ahead of the vote, while Tesla maintains its actions were appropriate given the seriousness of the alleged incident.
