Escalating Wage Strikes Disrupt Transport Services

Recent warning strikes have significantly disrupted public transportation in southwestern Germany. Key affected areas include services operated by SWEG, Schwäbische Alb-Bahn, and AVG, resulting in cancellations across several regions such as Gammertingen and Karlsruhe. The strikes are part of ongoing labor disputes involving the railway collective agreement, which impacts 5,500 employees across six federal states. The union Verdi is advocating for a salary increase of 350 euros and an inflation compensation of 1,300 euros, while employers propose a 3% raise starting in 2025 and a 600-euro inflation compensation.

In Bremen, negotiations for the metal and electrical industries are underway, with IG Metall demanding a 7% wage increase for over 130,000 workers. Meanwhile, in Berlin, the confectionery industry has seen strikes from approximately 200 employees, with demands for a 9.9% salary hike. Additionally, a warning strike in Schleswig-Holstein has led to widespread disruptions in bus services due to a collapsed contract for private bus company workers. These strikes highlight growing tensions in wage negotiations across various sectors, affecting transportation and public services.