Public Sector Strike Cripples Berlin as Verdi Calls for Salary Hike
Berlin, Germany – The German trade union Verdi has initiated a two-day warning strike in Berlin, bringing the city’s public services to a standstill. Employees of the municipal waste disposal company Berliner Stadtreinigung, hospitals Charité and Vivantes, and public bathing facilities Berliner Bäderbetriebe have joined the industrial action, demanding an 8% salary increase or a minimum of €350 per month.
The strike has caused widespread disruption across the German capital. Recycling centers are closed, garbage collection has ceased, and scheduled surgeries have been postponed. Some childcare facilities have been forced to shut down, and public swimming pools may open later or remain closed altogether.
The strike is the culmination of long-standing negotiations between Verdi and public sector employers, including the German government and municipalities. The union is demanding a significant salary increase to compensate for rising inflation and the increased cost of living.
"Our members have been working hard during the pandemic and beyond," said Verdi’s Berlin chief, Christine Behle. "They deserve fair compensation for their essential services."
The employers have rejected Verdi’s demands, offering a 5% salary increase instead. They argue that the union’s request is financially unsustainable, especially in light of the ongoing economic challenges.
The strike has drawn support from other unions, including the Beamtenbund, which represents civil servants. Together, they will hold a demonstration outside the Federal Ministry of Finance in Berlin at 10:00 am to demand the government’s intervention.
Impact on Essential Services
The strike has severely impacted the functioning of Berlin’s essential services. Residents are facing overflowing garbage bins and limited access to medical care.
"We understand that the strike is necessary, but it’s causing a lot of inconvenience," said Berlin resident Maria Schmidt. "We hope it ends soon so that the city can return to normal."
Economic Consequences
The strike is also expected to have a negative impact on Berlin’s economy. The closure of businesses and reduced consumer spending could result in lost revenue and job losses.
"We urge the government and employers to come to a swift resolution," said Stefan Genth, head of the Berlin Chamber of Commerce. "The longer the strike continues, the more damage it will do to the city."
Negotiations and Prospects
Negotiations between Verdi and public sector employers are set to resume on Friday. However, there is little optimism for a breakthrough. Both sides have dug in their heels, and it remains unclear how the dispute will be resolved.
The strike is a reminder of the deep-seated challenges facing the German economy as it grapples with rising inflation, labor shortages, and the ongoing effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. The outcome of the negotiations will have a significant impact on the lives of millions of public sector workers in Germany and beyond.
