Ongoing Labor Negotiations in Germany's Public Sector

The second round of collective bargaining between the railway union (EVG) and Deutsche Bahn has commenced, focusing on the wages and working conditions of 192,000 employees in Berlin. The union is advocating for a 7.6% salary increase, a job security guarantee until 2027, and additional compensation for shift workers. In contrast, the employer proposes a 4% salary increase spread over 37 months. Given the current peace obligation, no strikes are anticipated until the end of March, and an agreement in this round seems unlikely.

Amidst these negotiations, Verdi, another major union, is mobilizing public sector workers in North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW) for strikes, demanding an 8% wage increase and a minimum monthly raise of €350 for 640,000 employees across various sectors, including municipalities and public transport. Higher allowances are requested for employees in demanding roles, such as healthcare. Additionally, Verdi is calling for extra days off for all workers, with increased benefits for union members.

In a related development, Verdi has initiated warning strikes at postal centers in several regions, including Dresden and Leipzig, as part of their push for a 7% wage increase and additional vacation days. The postal service aims to present a viable offer by mid-February.

As these negotiations progress, they underscore the broader labor challenges facing various sectors in Germany, highlighting the unions' determination to secure better conditions for their members.