Verdi's Strikes Intensify Across Germany

In recent days, the Verdi trade union has intensified its calls for strikes across Germany, affecting multiple sectors, most notably airports and postal services. The union is advocating for substantial wage increases and improved working conditions amid ongoing labor disputes. At Munich, Düsseldorf, and Cologne/Bonn airports, strikes led to the cancellation of approximately 1,600 flights, causing significant travel disruptions. Verdi's demands include an 8% wage increase and additional days off to counteract the strains caused by work intensification and staffing shortages.

Meanwhile, the postal sector is also embroiled in a heated labor conflict. Verdi is calling for a 7% salary hike and extra vacation days for about 170,000 Deutsche Post employees. The union's demands come in response to what they perceive as insufficient offers from employers, who propose only a 1.8% pay increase, with a future rise to 2%, over a 27-month period. The employer's stance is reportedly constrained by declining mail volumes and the need for significant investments.

These strikes highlight a broader trend of industrial action within Germany, as workers across various sectors push for better compensation and working conditions. The ongoing negotiations have yet to yield a breakthrough, with further talks scheduled for March 2025. As tensions persist, the impact on services and customer experiences remains uncertain, but the union's resolve to escalate pressure on employers is clear.