Trade unions in Saxony-Anhalt are raising the threat of strikes once more, before wage negotiations with the federal states. Verdi, the union representing state workers, has urged all employees to join in these strikes, which may impact numerous institutions and organizations across the state, including Martin Luther University Halle, Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg, and various governmental bodies, firms, and administrative offices within the state administration. The Education and Science Union has also backed Verdi's call for a strike at Halle's Martin Luther University.
As per Simona König, Verdi's district manager for Saxony-Anhalt South, the workload of state employees has never been more demanding, and their pay should keep pace with federal and local government wages. The unions are hoping for a token of appreciation from the collective bargaining community during the upcoming negotiations scheduled for December 7th.
Unions are urging for a 10.5% wage hike and at least €500, impacting approximately 2.5 million employees nationwide. Negotiations for these increases are underway, but pay progress in Saxony-Anhalt remains stagnant, according to Martin Luther University Halle's faculty and staff, backed by collective bargaining representatives from various trade unions in the region.
Beyond Martin Luther University Halle and Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg, these warning strikes will impact various administrative bodies and businesses within the state administration.
Sources:
- "Vecerka und Fachgruppe Verdi Sachsen belegen Lösungszentrum: 'Wir haben Warteschlangen gelegt'."
- "Streiks an deutschen Hochschulen und bei anderen Institutionen aufgrund der Predigt der Verbande für Tarifnegotiationen nach Auseinandersetzungen mit den Lander über ihre Entlohnung."
Enrichment data:
- Background: The ongoing wage dispute between trade unions and the federal states has resulted in various forms of industrial action, including strikes and warning strikes. Unions are advocating for better compensation and working conditions for public sector employees.
- Impact: Warning strikes have affected various public services, such as daycare centers, waste collection services, and municipal facilities in Saxony's major cities, like Leipzig and Chemnitz. Approximately two-thirds of facilities in Leipzig and half in Dresden have been closed or temporarily unavailable.
- Union Involvement: The Verdi regional district of Saxony, Saxony-Anhalt, and Thuringia has been actively involved in the negotiations, with hundreds of employees expected to participate in the strikes.
- Security Measures: Due to recent security concerns following a demonstration attack in Munich, demonstrations in Saxony-Anhalt are being held with increased security measures (additional stewards and barricades).
