The train drivers' strike, which started on Wednesday morning and will last for three days throughout Germany, led to the cancellation of the flights of hundreds of thousands of people who travel to their workplaces by suburban trains and travel between cities and countries. Workers want wage increases and a shorter work week.
The train drivers' strike in Germany significantly affected the country's transportation system. Due to the strike that started on Wednesday morning and will last until Friday evening, Deutsche Bahn (DB) was only able to operate limited emergency services.
The strike led to the cancellation of hundreds of thousands of people traveling to their workplaces by suburban trains and traveling between cities and countries.
The strike started upon the demands of the train drivers' union GDL for a wage increase and a shortening of the working week. GDL is calling for a reduced workweek for its shift workers, from 38 hours to 35 hours at current wages. Deutsche Bahn offered flexibility in working hours but refused to reduce them without a pay cut.
The train operator argues that the union's demands will lead to a 50 percent increase in personnel costs as Germany hires more workers as it faces a shortage of skilled workers.
GDL president Claus Weselsky said Friday that if he didn't change his tune, they would take a break and "then move on to the next phase."
In Germany, where almost one-fifth of the transportation is carried out by rail, the participation of freight train drivers in the strike raises concerns about a break in the supply chain.
The strike has the potential to have a significant impact on Germany's economy and politics. If the strike is extended, it is likely to cause serious disruption to businesses and holidaymakers. It is also possible that it could harm the economy by disrupting supply chains.
The strike can be seen as a sign that workers' wage demands will increase due to rising inflation and the cost of living in Germany.