Wage negotiations between Deutsche Bahn and the EVG union have begun, raising concerns about potential strikes for railway travelers. The EVG is demanding a 7.6% wage increase and job security through 2027. Deutsche Bahn has countered with a 4% raise over 37 months. The negotiations are influenced by upcoming federal elections and the company’s ongoing economic and operational crises, including deteriorating infrastructure and financial losses. Strikes may remain a possibility if talks do not progress.
Are Strikes on the Horizon for Railway Travelers?
Today marks the commencement of wage negotiations between Deutsche Bahn and the EVG union. Travelers may be left wondering: should they brace themselves for potential strikes once again? In recent years, DB’s long-distance services have frequently faced disruptions due to warning strikes initiated by the EVG. In fact, the union called for these strikes twice during the previous negotiations in 2023, although a planned extensive strike was halted due to legal challenges.
This round of negotiations, however, is set against a different backdrop. The existing collective agreement remains in effect until the end of March, providing a peace obligation that ideally should lead to a resolution by then. The initial negotiation session on Tuesday yielded no conclusive results, but there were signs of progress.
Interestingly, EVG members have agreed to arbitration regarding the wage dispute with Deutsche Bahn, indicating a willingness to seek a resolution.
The Ongoing Cycle of Wage Negotiations at Deutsche Bahn
For many rail customers, it may seem like wage negotiations at DB are an ongoing saga. Since 2023, these discussions have become an annual occurrence, largely due to the rivalry between two unions vying for influence: the EVG and the smaller yet more contentious GDL (German locomotive drivers’ union).
The duration of collective agreements varies between the two unions. Following the agreement with EVG in 2023, negotiations with the GDL began just a few months later, extending into the following year. These discussions have often been accompanied by prolonged labor disputes. However, should the EVG and Deutsche Bahn reach a consensus within the next few weeks, passengers might enjoy a respite until the end of February 2026, when the GDL’s peace obligation concludes.
EVG’s Demands for Wage Increases
The EVG union has put forth several notable demands in the current negotiations. They are advocating for a 7.6 percent wage increase for approximately 192,000 employees under their agreements. Additionally, shift workers are seeking a further 2.6 percent bonus, which could be partially exchanged for extra days off. Another demand includes a one-time payment of 500 euros for EVG members, along with job security guarantees until the end of 2027. The union is not specifying the duration of the new agreement.
EVG negotiator Cosima Ingenschay emphasized the need for greater recognition of hard work and job security. She also made it clear that strikes remain an option if negotiations falter after April 1.
What Offers Are On the Table?
In response to the union’s demands, Deutsche Bahn has proposed a wage increase of four percent over two phases, along with the aforementioned 2.6 percent bonus for shift workers. This proposal aims to provide planning stability amid ongoing corporate restructuring, spanning a lengthy period of 37 months. Personnel director Martin Seiler highlighted that this offer demonstrates their commitment to constructive negotiations.
However, EVG negotiator Ingenschay expressed concern that a four percent increase over 37 months falls short of expectations, despite acknowledging that the proposal addresses their demands for shift workers.
The Impact of Upcoming Elections on Negotiations
The early federal elections scheduled for February 23 have significantly influenced the timing of these negotiations. The EVG sought to commence discussions early due to the uncertainties that a new government could introduce for the railway sector. The leading party has indicated a desire for increased competition, which could involve separating infrastructure from transport services—an approach the EVG firmly opposes, arguing that it won’t resolve existing railway issues.
The State of Deutsche Bahn: An Ongoing Crisis
Deutsche Bahn is currently facing a dual crisis—both economic and operational. Last year, long-distance train punctuality plummeted, with more delays recorded than in the previous two decades, largely attributable to deteriorating infrastructure. Over one-third of ICE and IC trains faced delays.
In the coming years, the railway aims to undertake extensive renovations of its rail network. Nonetheless, following the conclusion of the traffic light coalition, uncertainties loom regarding the continuation of necessary federal funding. Simultaneously, Deutsche Bahn grapples with significant financial challenges, including mounting debt and persistent losses in crucial divisions like DB Cargo, prompting plans for restructuring and job cuts. These financial constraints may become a critical factor in the ongoing wage discussions with the EVG.