Ongoing Negotiations Between Railways and EVG Show No Signs of Resolution

The ongoing salary negotiations between Germany's railway operator and the railway and transport union (EVG) continue without a resolution as discussions resume this weekend. Since Wednesday, both parties have been engaged in talks in Berlin, focusing on wage increases for approximately 192,000 employees.

As of Friday, no agreement had been reached, and the negotiation teams have set aside time through Sunday for further discussions. The current situation remains uncertain, with both sides refraining from commenting on the progress of the talks. Future negotiation sessions have not yet been scheduled.

If a consensus is not achieved during this round, it may prove challenging to finalize an agreement before the upcoming federal elections--a timeline that the union had aimed to meet.

Travelers can remain calm for the time being, as a peace obligation prevents any warning strikes in the railway sector until April 1. The EVG is advocating for a wage increase of 7.6% along with an additional 2.6% for shift workers, which can be partially converted into additional days off. Furthermore, the union is seeking a job guarantee until 2027.

In contrast, the railway operator has proposed a staggered salary increase of 4% along with a total of 3.9% in additional pay for shift workers, with a suggested contract duration of 37 months.