German Rail Operator and Train Drivers Union Reach Agreement Without Strikes

The long-standing labor dispute between Germany's national railway operator and the German Train Drivers' Union (GDL) has concluded amicably, with both parties reaching a new collective agreement without resorting to strikes or public confrontations. The outcome ensures stable rail services across the country for the foreseeable future.

Negotiations commenced in January after the previous agreement expired at the end of December. Over the course of five scheduled rounds of talks, representatives from Deutsche Bahn and the GDL worked toward a resolution, meeting in a conference room at Berlin's main station. During this period, a mandatory peace obligation prevented the union from calling strikes, which helped maintain regular train operations while discussions continued.

The agreement marks the first time since 2018 that talks between the two sides have concluded without industrial action. This round of negotiations was also notable for being led by Mario Reiß, the new head of the GDL, following the tenure of his predecessor. In contrast to previous years, both parties managed to avoid public disputes, with only limited criticism voiced despite some differences during the process.

Key points of contention included wage increases and the structure of the collective agreement. The union initially sought an 8% pay raise for its members, with a portion to be achieved through direct salary increases and the remainder via adjustments to the pay system. Deutsche Bahn's initial offer comprised a 3.8% wage increase in two stages, complemented by an additional 2.2% through changes to the salary structure, as well as a one-time payment of 400 euros. The duration of the agreement was also debated, with the company proposing a 30-month term and the union advocating for a shorter period.

Another important aspect of the negotiations involved the application of the Tariff Unity Act, which determines which union's agreements apply within a given company based on membership majority. Deutsche Bahn suggested a notarized procedure to clarify union membership figures in contested workplaces, as the majority of its approximately 300 subsidiaries are represented by a different union, the EVG. However, both sides managed to find common ground on this issue without escalation.

With the new agreement in place, there will be no strikes or disruptions to rail services in the coming months. The EVG, the other main railway union, already has a valid agreement with Deutsche Bahn until the end of 2027, further ensuring stability in the sector.

Further details of the agreement are expected to be released later in the day, with company officials set to comment on the outcome. The successful conclusion of these talks is viewed as a positive development for both the railway workforce and passengers, providing predictability and continuity in Germany's rail transportation network.