Breakthrough Agreement for Deutsche Bahn and GDL Amid Berlin Paralysis

The German transport scene has become an arena of surprising twists in recent days, bringing both relief and frustration to millions of travelers. The most important news is the end of the months-long conflict between the national carrier Deutsche Bahn and the train drivers' union GDL. The parties reached an agreement without resorting to disruptive strikes, which is seen as a success for the union's new leader, Mario Reiß. The agreement provides for a five percent wage increase in two stages and a one-time inflation bonus. Most importantly for passengers, the negotiated deal guarantees peace on the railways until 2028, ruling out protest actions in 2026 and 2027. A completely different picture emerges, however, from the streets of Berlin. The local public transport operator, the company BVG, is grappling with a 48-hour warning strike organized by the Verdi union. The protest action has led to a complete suspension of subway and tram services, leaving the capital's residents dependent on scarce bus connections and private carriers. The situation was worsened by the fact that fares in apps like Uber doubled compared to standard rates. Unionists warn that if their demands for improved working conditions are not met, they will prepare further series of protests. The German system of collective bargaining is based on tariff autonomy, meaning unions and employers set conditions without state interference. Historically, the transport sector in Germany was considered stable, but in the last decade, a growing staff shortage and inflation have led to an escalation of labor disputes.An additional challenge for passengers are numerous modernization works on the rail network. Closures of sections in the Elbe Valley and restrictions on the Main-Weser line in Hesse significantly hinder long-distance traffic. In Saxony, the works are set to last for many months, forcing the introduction of complicated replacement schedules. The accumulation of modernization and local strikes in Berlin means that, despite the success in federal-level negotiations, mobility in many regions of Germany remains severely restricted. „Dieser Abschluss zeigt, dass wir Verantwortung für das System Schiene übernehmen können, ohne auf harte Lohnforderungen zu verzichten.” (This agreement shows that we can take responsibility for the rail system without giving up on tough wage demands.) — Mario Reiß

Perspektywy mediów: Reports focus on the negotiation success and financial stability for railway workers thanks to the new GDL agreement. Media emphasize the chaos in the capital, price speculation by private carriers, and inconveniences resulting from ongoing infrastructure renovations.