Public Sector Strike Actions Commence in Germany
Hamburg Takes the Lead in Warning Strikes
The public sector strike actions, initiated by the service workers’ union Verdi, commenced at the Hamburg Airport with the start of the night shift. These warning strikes are scheduled to continue until the end of the late shift on Thursday, according to a call issued by Verdi. The union has also extended a call for participation in the strike to employees of hospitals, childcare facilities, urban sanitation services, energy providers, and theaters.
The ongoing wage negotiations in the federal and municipal public sectors have sparked these industrial actions. Verdi anticipates that over 4,000 workers in Hamburg alone will engage in work stoppages. A demonstration march through the city center is anticipated for Wednesday morning (following 10:30 AM). In Kiel, the union expects hundreds of participants to gather for a rally in the Damperhof neighborhood. Additional warning strike activities are planned in cities such as Lübeck and Flensburg.
Nationwide Negotiations Resume Amidst Stalemate
The nationwide wage negotiations are set to resume in Potsdam on Monday and Tuesday. The first round of talks ended without any agreement. Verdi and the Beamtenbund (civil servants’ association) are jointly demanding an 8% wage increase, with a minimum monthly raise of €350.
Strike Impacts Across Germany
The warning strikes have disrupted various public services in Hamburg and other cities. At the Hamburg Airport, delayed and canceled flights have been reported due to the participation of ground staff in the strike. Public transportation services, including buses and trains, have also experienced interruptions.
In Berlin, warning strikes have affected hospitals, childcare facilities, and urban sanitation services. Hospital operations have been scaled down, with only emergency and urgent procedures being performed. Childcare centers have remained closed, causing inconvenience to working parents.
Kiel has witnessed a disruption of public transportation, as well as the closure of some childcare facilities. Energy providers and theaters have also been impacted by the strike.
Union Demands and Employer Response
Verdi and the Beamtenbund argue that the wage demands are justified given the rising inflation and the significant workload faced by public sector employees, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. They emphasize the need for fair compensation and improved working conditions.
The Association of Municipal Employers (VKA) has expressed disappointment over the strike actions, arguing that the wage demands are excessive and unsustainable. The association maintains that the current economic situation does not support such a substantial wage increase.
Negotiations Resume with Uncertain Outcome
As the nationwide wage negotiations resume, both sides remain committed to reaching an agreement. However, the outcome of these talks is uncertain, and the possibility of continued strike actions remains.
The warning strikes are intended to exert pressure on employers and send a clear message regarding the union’s demands. The full impact of these actions on public services and the economy will become clearer in the coming days.
