Published February 27, 2026
last updated February 27, 2026
German commuters faced major disruption on Friday as warning strikes brought local buses, trams and U-Bahn systems to a near halt across most federal states, while rail travel saw relief after a separate deal.
Rail strikes averted after deal
National rail operator Deutsche Bahn and the train drivers’ union GDL reached a new collective bargaining agreement overnight, averting the prospect of long rail strikes. Spokespeople for both sides confirmed a deal, with full details to be presented in Berlin.
The GDL had submitted a 40-point list of demands including pay increases of up to 8% for members. Proposals contained in the agreement include a general wage rise of 3.8%, higher allowances, improved conditions for trainers and better pension bonuses. There were no immediate details on exact compromises.
Nationwide local transport strikes
Trade union Verdi launched warning strikes affecting local public transport in most regions from the early hours of Friday. Buses, trams and subway trains were expected to remain in depots for around 48 hours, with services scheduled to resume at the start of operations on Sunday morning in many areas. In most regions, very few vehicles were expected to operate.
Lower Saxony remains under an obligation not to strike until the end of March, so local public transport action is not permitted there for now. It was unclear whether further warning strikes would take place in Baden-Württemberg.
What’s behind the strikes
Verdi is negotiating separately with municipal employers’ associations in each of Germany’s 16 states and is primarily demanding significantly improved working conditions. Key demands include shorter weekly and shift working hours, longer rest periods, and higher bonuses for night and weekend work. In some states — including Bavaria, Brandenburg, Saarland, Thuringia, and at Hamburg’s Hochbahn — higher wages and salaries are also on the table.
Talks have made little progress recently, according to Verdi, and employers have similarly reported limited movement. Berlin’s BVG has criticized Verdi for not clearly prioritizing its demands. Negotiations are proceeding at different paces across regions, and no immediate breakthrough appeared likely.
Background
The strikes add to commuter misery after a long winter, although rail passengers were spared wider disruption thanks to the GDL-Deutsche Bahn agreement. This coverage will follow developments, including full details of the rail deal when they are released and any further municipal bargaining outcomes.