A wave of public transportation strikes is sweeping across the German map

In many cities across the German map, preparations are underway for a major disruption of public transportation. The second-largest German trade union, Verdi, has announced a nationwide protest on Monday, affecting hundreds of thousands of people commuting in German cities daily. This is one of the largest actions condemning working conditions in the mass transit sector in recent years.

Verdi mobilizes 16 German federal states

Collective bargaining is taking place simultaneously in all 16 German federal states, where Verdi is gradually applying pressure on employers. The union federation is coordinating an unprecedented action—workers from 150 urban transportation and bus companies will participate in the protest. With this step, Verdi signals that the negotiations led by state and municipal authorities so far have not brought satisfaction.

Condemning conditions demand immediate solutions

Public transportation workers across Germany face systematic pressure. Key undesirable factors include irregular working hours, constant shift operations, and ongoing time pressure, leading to physical and mental exhaustion. Christine Behle, Verdi’s vice chair, warned of alarming turnover in the sector—experienced technicians and operators are leaving en masse, which threatens service quality.

Verdi’s specific demands on the labor market

The union articulates clear demands. These include shortening the weekly working hours and individual shifts, extending rest days, and increasing financial incentives for demanding night and weekend work. These measures aim to create a more sustainable working environment and attract skilled professionals back into the transportation sector.

Scope of the strike: nearly 100,000 employees

According to Verdi, approximately 100,000 employees from about 150 cities and municipalities across Germany will participate in the mass protest. This represents a significant portion of the German public transportation workforce, making their voice heard through service disruptions.

Train connectivity will remain operational

In contrast to city and local transportation, long-distance trains operated by Deutsche Bahn, the state railway company, will not be affected by the strike. Intercity train services will therefore remain available, although residents of cities and municipalities across Germany may experience significant disruptions in public transportation.