German DGB honors late leaders Uwe Helfrich and Walborg Schröder

The German Trade Union Federation (DGB) announced the deaths of two longtime members. Uwe Helfrich, 78, died on 30 July 2026. He had served for decades as chair of the DGB city association in Delmenhorst and was an active member of IG BAU, known for his annual anti‑war speeches and advocacy for fair working conditions.

Walborg Schröder, 93, passed away on 27 June 2026. A veteran unionist in Bergisch Gladbach, she was involved with the DGB Rhein‑Berg, the anti‑fascist VVN‑BdA, and the women’s movement, receiving the city’s Golden Honor Pin for her work in remembrance and anti‑racism initiatives. Both were praised for their lifelong commitment to solidarity, peace and social justice.