Nationwide Warning Strike Paralyzes German Transport on March 27, 2023

Widespread Disruptions Across Germany

A comprehensive nationwide warning strike on Monday, March 27, 2023, led to significant disruptions across Germany's transport infrastructure. Organized by two prominent unions, Verdi (United Services Union) and EVG (Railway and Transport Union), the 24-hour industrial action impacted millions of commuters and travelers, effectively bringing large parts of the country's public services to a halt.

The strike, described by local media as a 'mega-strike,' was one of the largest in decades and aimed to intensify pressure in ongoing collective bargaining negotiations.

Unions' Demands Amid Soaring Inflation

The joint strike by Verdi and EVG was a rare occurrence, highlighting the unions' determination to secure better pay for their members. Verdi, representing approximately 2.5 million public sector employees, including those in public transport and airports, demanded a 10.5% rise in monthly salaries, with a minimum increase of at least 500 euros per month. Meanwhile, EVG, negotiating for around 230,000 workers at Deutsche Bahn and bus companies, sought a 12% raise, or at least 650 euros extra per month.

These demands were made in response to surging inflation and the rising cost of living, particularly food and energy prices, which have significantly impacted workers' purchasing power. Employers had countered with an offer of a 5% rise in two stages, coupled with one-off payments. Verdi chief Frank Werneke emphasized the necessity of the strike, stating, 'A labour struggle that has no impact is toothless.' He further added that 'Employees are fed up with being fobbed off with warm words while work conditions get ever worse and there are many vacant posts.'

Far-Reaching Impact on Travel and Commerce

The strike's effects were felt nationwide, particularly in key transport sectors:

• Airports: Most major German international airports, including Munich and Frankfurt, suspended flights, impacting an estimated 380,000 air passengers. Frankfurt alone saw nearly 1,200 flights cancelled, affecting 160,000 passengers.
• Railways: Deutsche Bahn (DB) suspended all long-distance train services, and many regional and local connections came to a complete standstill across the country.
• Public Transport: Buses, trams, and subways were significantly affected in numerous cities and in seven federal states, including Hesse, North Rhine-Westphalia, Baden-Württemberg, Saxony, Lower Saxony, Rhineland-Palatinate, and Bavaria.
• Roads and Motorways: While many commuters opted to work from home, the standstill in public transport led to increased traffic on roads and motorways, with traffic signs warning of 'Risk of traffic jams.' The Autobahn GmbH, responsible for highways, was also affected by the industrial action.
• Ports: Municipal ports also experienced disruptions due to the strike.

A spokesperson for Deutsche Bahn criticized the action as 'groundless and unnecessary' and 'excessive, exaggerated.' Despite the widespread inconvenience, a YouGov poll indicated that approximately 55% of Germans considered the strike to be justified. The 24-hour strike concluded as negotiations between unions and employers were set to resume.