Public transportation services across Germany came to a standstill on Friday as a result of a week-long series of strikes organized by the Ver.di service workers' union. The union, supported by the Fridays for Future climate activist group, initiated the strikes to advocate for improved working conditions for employees.
The strikes, which began on Monday and culminated in a major walkout on Friday, have impacted local buses, subway trains, and trams in various regions of the country. Demands from the union include a shorter working week and additional compensation for night shifts, with specific demands varying by location.
While Bavaria remains unaffected due to the absence of ongoing negotiations, an agreement was recently reached in Saarland, leading to the cessation of strikes in that region. These limited 'warning strikes' are a common strategy employed during contract negotiations in Germany.
Separately, a prolonged dispute between a union representing train drivers and Deutsche Bahn, the country's primary railway operator, continues to pose challenges for travelers. The GDL union, which previously staged a multi-day strike, is pushing for a reduction in working hours from 38 to 35 per week without a corresponding pay cut.
Despite both parties returning to the negotiating table a month ago, talks were halted by GDL on Thursday. The situation remains unresolved, with further updates expected following a scheduled news conference on Monday.
