Histadrut mourns the passing of Michael Sommer, former DGB president

Tel Aviv, July 3, 2025 — The Histadrut, Israel’s General Federation of Labour, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Michael Sommer, the former President of the German Trade Union Confederation (DGB) and a prominent figure in the international labor movement.

In a heartfelt letter addressed to DGB Chairwoman Yasmin Fahimi, Histadrut Chairperson Arnon Bar-David paid tribute to Sommer’s enduring legacy, describing him as “a towering figure in the global trade union movement” and “a builder of hope.”

“Michael Sommer was not only a transformative leader for German workers but also a statesman of the international labour movement,” Bar-David wrote. “His vision and influence reached far beyond national borders. He championed the rights of working people everywhere, advocating tirelessly for dignity, justice, and peace.”

The letter highlighted Sommer’s significant role in strengthening ties between the German and Israeli labor movements. His commitment to fostering trust and reconciliation between Germany and Israel was particularly noted, with Bar-David emphasizing Sommer’s efforts to “transform history into a foundation for solidarity and mutual respect.”

“His steadfast friendship with the Histadrut reflected his deep understanding of the unique and complex relationship between Germany and Israel,” the letter continued. “We remember him not only as a partner in our struggles, but as a builder of hope.”

The DGB also issued a statement mourning Sommer’s passing:

“Michael Sommer was one of us, in heart and soul. With his passing, we lose a great trade union activist who passionately fought for a more just world,” said the DGB Federation.

Gershon Gelman, Chairman of the International Relations Division of the Histadrut, shared a personal tribute in an interview with Davar:

“I will remember him as one of my personal and close friends in Germany who stood by our side for many years. May his memory be a blessing,” he said, adding that Sommer was one of the greatest supporters and partners of the Histadrut and the State of Israel in the world.
“I had the privilege of being close to him and personally acquainted, and I am saddened today by the loss of a friend and partner.”

Avital Shapira, Director of International Relations in the Histadrut, also shared a personal moving memory:

“I was privileged to build a very personal relationship with him, proudly sharing with him, inter alia, that my dad meets with German youth delegations. Michael humbly requested to meet with my father when he came to Israel. The meeting was held in December 2010 at my parents’ home. He came with his wife, Ulrike, and they sat with my parents for a long time, focusing mainly on my father’s brave and unimaginable Holocaust survival. I was amazed by the empathy and respect that Michael gave my parents and particularly to my father.”

Michael Sommer served as President of the DGB from 2002 to 2014 and held key positions in the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC), where he was widely respected for his principled leadership and global advocacy for workers’ rights.

The Histadrut extended its condolences to Sommer’s family, the DGB, and all those who were touched by his leadership and friendship, concluding with a message of solidarity and remembrance: “May his memory continue to be a blessing and a source of strength to all who carry forward his vision.”