Over 2.6 Million Workers Await Salary Increases Months After Agreement

Berlin - The aftermath of extended strikes has left many workers in a state of frustration, as 2.6 million employees in the public sector are still waiting for their promised salary increases. Following a series of disruptive warnings and strikes that affected essential services, including childcare centers, waste collection, and healthcare facilities, a tariff agreement was finally reached in April after protracted negotiations.

The agreement, facilitated by mediators, was accepted by both the Association of Municipal Employers (VKA) and the Federal Ministry of the Interior, as well as the Verdi union and the Civil Service Federation. It stipulated a 3% salary increase retroactive to April 1, with a minimum of 110 euros, followed by an additional 2.8% increase scheduled for May 2026.

However, the implementation of these increases has faced delays. Many workers, including educators, sanitation workers, healthcare staff, bus drivers, and administrative personnel, are still awaiting their raises four months after the agreement was reached. The prolonged negotiations regarding the specifics of the agreement have led to tensions between the VKA and Verdi, with reports of new demands and claims regarding the delayed payments.

As of late July, the VKA indicated that a resolution had finally been achieved, paving the way for the practical implementation of the salary increases. A spokesperson for the VKA confirmed that the final agreement was reached after discussions on the details and interpretations of the initial terms.

Despite the resolution, the mood among the workers remains somber. A spokesperson for Verdi expressed concern over the duration of the delay, pointing out that this situation has caused significant dissatisfaction among union members. The spokesperson emphasized the importance of ensuring that the agreed-upon salary increases are processed promptly.

With the next payroll period approaching in September, there is hope that the long-awaited salary adjustments will finally be reflected in employees' paychecks, nearly five months after the initial agreement.