Verdi Union Announces Two-Day Strike at Berlin Transport Company: Here's the Lowdown
Berlin-based transport companies face an upcoming work stoppage, as announced by Verdi.
Let's get straight to the point about the upcoming two-day strike at the Berlin Transport Company (BVG). Affectionately known as the "Wednesday-Friday Strike," it's the result of an impasse in wage negotiations.
The service union Verdi has called for this work stoppage, starting from the crack of dawn on Wednesday and wrapping up just as early on Friday.
It's all due to BVG not putting an offer on the table during the sixth round of negotiations that satisfied the hardworking employees and reasonably compensated for recent skyrocketing prices and wage gaps, as per Verdi negotiator Jeremy Arndt. Employees had made their position clear with warning strikes on both Wednesday and Thursday of this very week.
So, who's to blame for more strikes? According to Arndt, the employers and Berlin Senate take that mantle. On the positive side, Arndt mentioned that the union remains open for dialogue and eager for a swift resolution.
Verdi's key demands? Well, they're asking for a sweet 750 euros per month salary boost, a 300 euro allowance for those working shifts, and a 13th month salary. In comparison, BVG proposed a 13.6% wage increase over two years—comprising 240 euros in 2025 and 135 euros in 2026[1][5]. Alas, the union found this offer lacking[1][5]. Verdi is even contemplating an all-out strike if negotiations don't yield the desired results[2][5].
Stay tuned for more updates, as the story unfolds in the city that never sleeps—Berlin!
Sources:1. ntv.de2. AFP3. BVG Official Website4. The Berliner Zeitung5. Der Tagesspiegel
- The two-day strike announced by Verdi Union at the Berlin Transport Company (BVG) is part of an ongoing dispute over employment policy, as the union is demanding a significant salary increase, shift allowance, and 13th month salary, which BVG has yet to agree upon.
- In response to the impasse in wage negotiations, Verdi has called for a two-day strike, starting on Wednesday and ending on Friday, using WhatsApp to communicate details to its members.
- The current employment policy standoff between Verdi and BVG has led to a potential escalation, with Verdi considering a prolonged strike if the issue is not resolved to their satisfaction, raising concerns about the community policy regarding public transportation in Berlin.
