Verdi Members Approve Indefinite Strikes at BVG Amid Ongoing Mediation

The ongoing negotiations between the Berlin transport company BVG and the Verdi union have taken a significant turn, as union members have overwhelmingly voted in favor of authorizing indefinite strikes. In a recent referendum, an impressive 95.4 percent of participants supported the possibility of such action, according to information from union sources.

Despite this strong backing, it remains uncertain whether strikes will actually occur, as mediation talks are still in progress and are expected to continue until next Thursday. Verdi had previously declared the negotiations for approximately 16,000 employees to be unsuccessful, prompting the announcement of the vote.

Following this declaration, BVG requested the initiation of a mediation process. Both parties subsequently agreed on the terms of this process, appointing mediators to assist in reaching an agreement. The mediators chosen include Matthias Platzeck, former Minister-President of Brandenburg, representing BVG, and Bodo Ramelow, former Prime Minister of Thuringia, representing Verdi.

During the mediation process, confidentiality is maintained. BVG has stated that it will not comment on the results of the union's vote, emphasizing that the mediation is currently ongoing and that both sides have committed to a "mediate and remain silent" agreement.

One of the primary points of contention in the negotiations is Verdi's demand for a monthly salary increase of 750 euros. BVG has labeled this demand as unrealistic and financially unfeasible. Conversely, Verdi argues that the current compensation does not adequately reflect the contributions of the employees.

While both parties have yet to find common ground on this key issue, they have made some progress on other fronts, including agreements on the duration of contracts and additional allowances. The latest offer from BVG included a phased salary increase of 375 euros over 24 months, along with a proposal for an additional Christmas bonus of 200 euros distributed in two installments. Furthermore, the company proposed additional allowances totaling 225 euros for driving and shift work.

Should the mediation fail, Verdi would be in a position to initiate strikes immediately. The recent authorization vote enhances the union's legal leverage in labor disputes, potentially allowing for longer-term strikes if necessary. To date, Verdi has called for warning strikes five times during this round of negotiations.

As the situation develops, the potential for strikes looms large, with both employees and management keenly observing the outcomes of the ongoing mediation efforts.