Verdi Intensifies Pressure Ahead of Third Round in Public Sector Pay Dispute

The union demands an 8% wage increase and three additional leave days as protests and strikes escalate nationwide.

Verdi is pushing for an 8% wage increase or at least €350 more per month, alongside three additional leave days for public sector workers.
Union leader Frank Werneke criticized the lack of concrete offers from employers, who have suggested minimal raises and a lengthy 36-month contract term.
Nationwide protests and strikes, including in Berlin, are disrupting services such as waste collection, public clinics, and other municipal operations.
Verdi plans further demonstrations, including a major protest in Potsdam on Friday to coincide with the third round of negotiations.
The union has vowed to persist with protests and negotiations, warning that further rounds may be necessary if no agreement is reached.