What challenges are Continental workers in Wetzlar facing and what does it reveal about Germany's economy?

Continental workers in Wetzlar are protesting massive job losses after being told their positions would be eliminated entirely, despite previous assurances that 300 employees would be transferred to other locations. This situation has created significant emotional distress as workers who invested in homes and families now face an uncertain future. These job cuts are symptomatic of broader problems affecting not just the automotive industry but many German sectors struggling to remain competitive. Germany faces multiple economic challenges including high labor costs, technological lag, and excessive bureaucracy, resulting in economic stagnation. Political leaders like Friedrich Merz advocate for reducing regulation and bureaucracy to revitalize the economy, though consensus on specific solutions remains elusive.