Strikes hit Germany’s transport sector

After airport strikes in Germany, urban transportation workers initiated warning strikes in various states today, affecting trams and buses

In Cologne, the bustling city in North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW), Germany’s largest state, essential tram and bus services ground to a halt as a result of a widespread strike. The extensive strike, heeded by employees following the nationwide call by the United Service Sector Union, left daily commuter hubs deserted. 

The absence of public transportation compelled individuals heading to school and work in Cologne to turn to their private vehicles, increasing congestion and causing disruptions in city traffic – a scenario mirrored in other major urban centers. 

In addition to Cologne, cities such as Düsseldorf, Bonn and Leverkusen are also without public transportation due to the warning strike.

The union’s main demands are for improved working conditions, such as shorter weekly working hours without wage cuts, more vacation days, longer rest periods for shift and night workers, while workers in Brandenburg, Saarland, Saxony-Anhlat and Thuringia want not only improved working conditions but also wage increases.

The union is advocating for improved working conditions, including shorter weekly hours, more vacation days, and longer rest periods for shift and night workers. The demands also include wage increases in specific regions like Brandenburg, Saarland, Saxony-Anhalt, and Thuringia.

Source: Newsroom