German Public Transport Workers are Striking Again on Friday

As Germany braces for another major public transport strike, passengers across the country are set to face considerable disruptions. This move, orchestrated by the ver.di union, is a significant escalation in their ongoing dispute over working conditions and collective bargaining agreements. Scheduled for February 2, this strike is not just another date on the calendar but a critical juncture in the union’s efforts to advocate for the rights and well-being of over 90,000 local transport employees across more than 130 companies.

The Heart of the Matter: Demands and Negotiations

At the core of the strike are the union’s demands aimed at making public transport jobs more attractive and sustainable. Christine Behle, ver.di’s deputy federal chairwoman, has been vocal about the union’s aspirations for a 35-hour work week without a reduction in wages. This proposal is seen as a vital step towards alleviating the chronic worker shortage plaguing the industry, a situation so dire that it has led to a significant number of bus and train cancellations. Behle emphasizes the urgent need for solutions to break this vicious cycle of overworked employees and deteriorating service quality.

The union’s demands extend beyond work hours and wages. They are calling for improved conditions such as 33 holiday days for all employees, mandatory rest periods, and additional leave for night shift hours. These measures aim to address the high levels of stress and fatigue faced by workers, making the sector more appealing to potential employees.

A Nationwide Call to Action

This strike is notable for its breadth and impact, affecting urban areas across all German federal states except Bavaria, where services are expected to run as normal. The decision to strike follows a series of unsuccessful wage negotiations in all federal states, leading to a deadlock that the union hopes to break through increased pressure on employers.

Public transport in cities like Berlin and Brandenburg will be particularly hit, with the Berliner Verkehrsbetriebe (BVG) and 14 Brandenburg transport companies ceasing operations for varying durations on the strike day. This strategic move underscores the union’s determination to push for change, despite the recent conclusion of a strike by the German Train Drivers’ Union (GDL) at Deutsche Bahn, which had already put a strain on the country’s transport infrastructure.

Community and Climate Concerns

The strike has also garnered support from unexpected quarters, including the climate action group Fridays for Future. The group’s spokesperson, Darya Sotoodeh, has thrown their weight behind the industrial action, highlighting the broader societal need for reliable and efficient public transport. This support underscores the interconnectedness of labor rights, public services, and environmental sustainability in the face of government austerity measures that threaten to undermine the quality of public transport.

Looking Ahead

As Germany stands on the precipice of a major public transport shutdown, the implications are far-reaching. Commuters are advised to prepare for significant disruptions, especially during rush-hour traffic, as the strike promises to bring buses, trams, and underground services to a standstill. This upcoming strike is not just a call for better working conditions but a critical moment for reflection on the future of public transport and its role in a sustainable, equitable society.

The dialogue between ver.di and the municipal employers’ associations continues, with both sides seemingly entrenched in their positions. As the strike day approaches, all eyes are on this standoff, with the hope that a resolution can be found that addresses the workers’ demands while ensuring the continuity and reliability of public transport services in Germany.