Teachers and intellectuals affiliated with the Education and Science Union (GEW) in Saxony-Anhalt are bracing for a warning strike on Tuesday. The GEW blames employers for the collective bargaining negotiations standoff in the public service of the federal states. Employees in the independent city of Magdeburg, as well as the districts of Altmarkkreis Salzwedel, Stendal, Börde, Jerichower Land, Salzlandkreis, and Harz, have been ordered to participate. An afternoon rally will take place at Magdeburg's cathedral square.
Eva Gerth, GEW's state director, expressed disappointment that a justifiable salary increase offer is yet to materialize. According to Gerth, this move reflects a lack of appreciation for essential employees. The high willingness to strike among GEW members remains due to this dissatisfaction.
Not only teachers, but university employees and students of Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, falling under the federal states’ collective agreement scope, are encouraged to join the warning strike on Tuesday. GEW seeks a 10.5% wage increase and at least 500 euros more per month. In addition, they advocate for a collective agreement covering all student employees, to run for a year. December 7 and 8 in Potsdam will see the next round of collective bargaining negotiations in the public sector of the federal states.
It's common for unions like the GEW to demand improved working conditions, wages, benefits, and educational policies. These demands can include measures for funding, class size, infrastructure, mental health support, student well-being, union recognition, and collective bargaining rights. Meanwhile, employers often react by engaging in negotiations, offering compromises, and implementing reforms to address these issues and keep teachers well-informed.
