Bahn and EVG Continue Negotiations for Wage Increase Amidst Economic Challenges

The Deutsche Bahn and the Railway and Transport Union (EVG) are currently engaged in negotiations in Berlin, aiming to reach an agreement on salary increases. These discussions are set to continue until Wednesday, with no immediate impact on passengers expected during this tariff round.

In this second round of negotiations, the EVG has called for an improved offer from the employer side. The union's negotiating chief emphasized the necessity for a more substantial proposal, stating that the current offer is insufficient given the extended duration of the contract. The EVG aims for a swift resolution before the upcoming federal elections. It is noteworthy that the possibility of warning strikes is currently restricted due to an ongoing peace obligation that lasts until the end of March.

As the talks commenced, the EVG leader expressed skepticism regarding the likelihood of reaching an agreement in this round but highlighted the importance of gauging the Bahn's commitment to a prompt conclusion. On the other hand, the Bahn's personnel chief acknowledged the tight financial constraints faced by the company but reiterated the commitment to recognize the hard work of employees. He pointed out that the Bahn had already proposed an offer in the first round aimed at demonstrating their intent to negotiate constructively and efficiently.

Both parties, however, remain significantly apart in their proposals. The EVG is demanding a salary increase of 7.6 percent along with an additional payment of 2.6 percent for shift workers, part of which is to be convertible into additional days off. In light of the economic difficulties currently facing the Bahn, the union is also pushing for a job security guarantee until the end of 2027.

In the previous negotiation round, the employers had offered a staggered increase of 4 percent, alongside the requested 2.6 percent for shift workers, with a proposed contract duration of 37 months.