EVG Demands 7.6% Wage Increase in Rail Negotiations

The Eisenbahn- und Verkehrsgewerkschaft (EVG) is advocating for a substantial wage increase of 7.6% during the upcoming collective bargaining talks with Deutsche Bahn. In addition to the wage raise, the union is also seeking a supplementary payment of 2.6% specifically for shift workers, as announced by the EVG.

As part of the proposed benefits for shift workers, a portion of the extra payment could be converted into additional days off. Furthermore, EVG members are set to receive a one-time bonus of EUR500. The initial round of negotiations is scheduled for January 28.

Cosima Ingenschay, the lead negotiator for the EVG, emphasized the importance of recognizing the hard work of employees and ensuring job security and income stability in this bargaining round. The union's demand for a 7.6% wage hike mirrors their recent negotiations with private railway companies, which ultimately resulted in a 6.1% salary increase.

In addition to wage increases, the EVG is focused on reforming the pay structure to eliminate financial disparities among different job categories within the organization.

Currently, the threat of strike action appears limited, as the existing collective agreement and associated peace obligation will remain effective until the end of March. The EVG opted to advance the negotiations due to the upcoming federal elections on February 23, asserting that timely discussions are essential to prevent union members from being affected by political dynamics. Ingenschay commented that waiting until March could be too late for effective negotiations.

Despite the current peace obligation, the EVG has indicated that it will not relinquish its leverage regarding potential industrial action. The union leaders have made it clear that they will not accept an agreement at any cost. Survey results indicate that members are open to the possibility of striking if necessary, reinforcing that all options will be considered once the peace obligation concludes.

According to Deutsche Bahn, the EVG's collective agreements impact around 192,000 employees. The last negotiation between the EVG and the state-owned Deutsche Bahn concluded in the summer of 2023, after which union members participated in strikes during the protracted talks.