Minister Heil asserted that reform does not equate to cuts, advocating for smarter social security measures. He distanced himself from proposals to alter the eight-hour workday, which the DGB opposes. Chancellor Merz, addressing the congress, was met with boos and laughter as he urged acceptance of reform as a necessity driven by demographic changes. DGB Chair Fahimi criticized the perception that reforms lead to cuts, recalling past unfulfilled promises regarding pension security. She warned against changes to the labor law that could undermine established worker rights.