In Berlin, the ongoing conflict between the Berliner Verkehrsbetriebe (BVG) and the Verdi union has escalated following the failure of the sixth round of tariff negotiations, which ended on March 21, 2025. This impasse comes on the heels of a recent 48-hour warning strike that caused widespread disruptions to transportation services across the capital.
The warning strike, which officially ended early on the same day at 3 a.m., was the fourth such work stoppage organized by Verdi amidst a prolonged dispute over wages and working conditions for the approximately 16,000 BVG employees. Following the conclusion of the warning strike, buses, U-bahn trains, and trams resumed normal operations, although passengers were warned that delays might occur as services fully stabilized.
Verdi had launched the warning strike in an effort to apply pressure on BVG management, seeking a significant increase in wages. The union is demanding an extra €750 per month, alongside a request for a 13th month’s salary, shift allowances, and other benefits. BVG, however, argues that these demands are financially unfeasible, leading to a deadlock in discussions.
Manuel von Stubenrauch, a representative from the Verdi tariff commission, indicated that if negotiations do not progress regarding base salary, the union would likely move forward with a ballot to vote on indefinite strikes, a measure requiring approval from at least 75 percent of participating members. This vote could take days or weeks to finalize, with a longer strike expected to commence as early as April 2025.
The dynamic of the negotiations has been fraught, with both sides increasing pressure on each other. BVG's Human Resources Director Jenny Zeller-Grothe remarked, “It is high time that the union finally brings solutions and compromises to the table instead of continuing to insist on maximum demands.” In response, Verdi leader Jeremy Arndt asserted that the union had already shown willingness to negotiate on allowances and contract duration, emphasizing that the primary sticking point remains the base salary to account for inflation and the cost of living increase required to maintain employee competitiveness.
This situation is further complicated by the timing of these negotiations, which are taking place against the backdrop of rising living costs attributed to inflation and after a significant period since the last wage agreement before the Ukraine war began. The union's demands reflect a call for more equitable compensation, particularly in light of the financial strain being felt by workers.
Currently, common ground appears elusive, with BVG having put forth a proposal to increase salaries in stages, offering a €375 increase over 24 months, resulting in a total wage increase of 13.6 percent. However, Verdi has deemed this offer insufficient compared to their requests, prompting ongoing discussions without resolution.
In addition to the demand for increased wages, Verdi is also seeking improvement in stipulations regarding holiday bonuses and allowances related to irregular shifts. BVG's latest offer provides for a €200 increase in Christmas bonuses and €225 for allowances concerning specific shifts, information that was shared during the latest negotiation round.
With both parties now approaching a potential crossroads, the outcome of the upcoming discussions will be crucial in determining the next steps. If negotiations fail, Verdi has signaled readiness to mobilize its members for an indefinite strike, leaving Berlin’s transportation network and its users in a precarious position as they await developments. Should the talks continue to unravel, the prospects for operational stability may further diminish.
This latest tsariff conflict showcases the struggles inherent in labor negotiations within the public transport sector, highlighting the urgent need for both sides to come to the table with an openness to compromise to avoid disruption for commuters and ensure fair working conditions for employees.
As future negotiations loom, commuters in Berlin remain vigilant, hoping for an amicable resolution before an indefinite strike could bring their daily routines to a grinding halt.
