Berlin faces potential work disruptions due to planned BVG strikes
Battling for Better Pay: Fights and Strikes Aboard Berlin's Public Transport
January 15, 2023
After years of wage stagnation, unions in Berlin are stepping up the fight for better pay and benefits, particularly for employees of public institutions such as the city's transport system, BVG. The latest dispute centers around a demand for an additional €750 per month and a "13th month" bonus check._
Tensions have been escalating since the beginning of the year. Today, the union, Verdi, issued a stern warning, with negotiator Jeremy Arndt announcing potential strikes if employers refuse to budge. "Expect strikes from January 15," Arndt declared ominously._
Historical PrecedentThe ongoing negotiations are reminiscent of the 2022 public transport strikes, which were primarily driven by dissatisfaction among non-medical employees of Charité Facility Management (CFM), a subsidiary responsible for services like transport, cleaning, security, and gardening at the hospital. These workers were critical for maintaining day-to-day operations and faced substantial wage disparities compared to their directly employed counterparts, amounting to a gap of 600-700 euros per month. As a result, the strike became a battle cry for fair pay and an end to outsourcing._
Current State of PlayNegotiations between BVG and Verdi have so far been unproductive, with the union citing a "de facto loss of real wages" due to inflation and other economic factors. BVG HR director, Jenny Zeller-Grothe, has countered, stating that the demands are "unfinanceable". This impasse threatens to cause a significant disruption in Berlin's public transport system, as the holidays come to a close and commuters return to work._
Looking AheadStay tuned for updates as the situation develops. Regardless of the outcome, the current standoff underscores the ongoing struggles of public sector employees seeking fair wages and better working conditions.
In light of the ongoing dispute for better pay and benefits, Verdi announced potential strikes for football-like confrontations if employers refuse to meet their demands, such as an additional €750 per month and a "13th month" bonus check. These negotiations mirror the 2022 public transport strikes inspired by dissatisfaction among non-medical employees, who faced substantial wage disparities and called for fair pay in sports-like battles against outsourcing.
