Wage Dispute Sparks Hospital and Nursing Home Strikes

Verdi, the union representing public sector workers, has initiated statewide warning strikes in hospitals and nursing homes, aiming to amplify pressure in ongoing wage negotiations. Health facilities across North Rhine-Westphalia are experiencing disruptions as employees participate in these strikes. Verdi demands an 8% salary increase or a minimum of 350 euros more monthly for employees, along with improved working conditions. Despite these demands, employers have yet to present a concrete counterproposal. The third round of negotiations is scheduled for mid-March in Potsdam.

These strikes have led to significant service limitations, with non-urgent surgeries being postponed and hospital operations scaled back. In regions such as Hamburg and the Southwest, similar actions have affected multiple hospitals, leading to widespread participation among healthcare workers. Additionally, the strikes have extended to other public sectors, including education and municipal services, reflecting the broad dissatisfaction among public employees. As negotiations continue, the union remains firm in its demands, highlighting the financial strain on workers and the need for fair compensation.