Deutsche Bahn faces the threat of prolonged strikes causing significant disruptions in transit services. GDL, the train drivers' union, has gained approval for potential indefinite strikes, with 97% of voting members in favor and 75% required for enactment. The representatives, led by Claus Weselsky, emphasized the high turnout of over 70% as a sign of strong union support.
The ongoing dispute between the union and Deutsche Bahn revolves around the GDL's demand for reduced weekly working hours for shift workers, from 38 to 35 hours. Despite the union's intent, the railway company considers the reduction unattainable due to the labor shortage.
Negotiations between the two parties have stalled, with the union already instigating two warning strikes that brought most trains to a halt for 20 and 24 hours. With the union's extensive strike support, further disruptions are a possibility.
Historically, the union has engaged in lengthy strikes, with the longest strike in Deutsche Bahn's history lasting 127 hours in May 2015. Ballots are necessary for longer strikes to ensure a broad majority of members' approval before causing financial burden through ongoing strikes.
Deutsche Bahn, in contrast, recently proposed an 11% wage increase over a 32-month period as an alternative to the union's demands. However, this offer falls short of the union's wage hike and inflation compensation bonus requests.
The prospect of indefinite strikes is a new challenge for both Deutsche Bahn and commuters. As negotiations continue, resolving the dispute without further limitations to public transportation remains a critical priority.
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GDL's counterpart in Berlin's urban transit operator BVG is experiencing a similar situation. The workers are demanding a €750 increase in basic pay, a €300 rotating shift bonus for drivers, doubling the shift premium from €100 to €200, and an extra month's bonus payment instead of the annual special payment.
The demands stem from low wages and poor working conditions, including inadequate turnaround times for bathroom breaks, constant line changes for drivers, and a shortage of staff. The union is also fighting against privatization and outsourcing to companies with worse working conditions.
In 2008, BVG workers enacted a full strike but failed to achieve the desired 12% pay rise due to union officials’ sabotage. Currently, the dispute is part of broader social cutbacks and rearmament efforts by the federal government, placing pressure on the union to prevent broader strike movements during the election campaign. The rank-and-file Transport Workers Action Committee has emerged to push for independent action and address perceived union inaction.
