Deutsche Bahn, the operator of trains in Germany, announced on Tuesday that it has reached an agreement with the German Train Drivers’ Union (GDL) to reduce the workweek for drivers, bringing an end to a dispute that began months ago and led to strikes across the country.
Martin Seiler, the Director of Human Resources at Deutsche Bahn, stated in a press conference, “It was a challenging journey… but in the end, we managed to reach a smart settlement.”
Starting in 2026, the regular workweek will gradually decrease from 38 hours to 35 hours by 2029, with full pay.
However, train drivers will have the option to work longer hours, up to 40 hours per week if they choose, with a 2.7% increase added to their salaries for each additional hour worked.
Seiler added, “Our colleagues can make their own decisions about the weekly working hours that suit them and their lifestyles best.”
Described as “modern,” the solution will introduce “flexibility” into the profession at a time when Germany is facing a shortage of skilled labor.
As part of the agreement, workers will also receive a wage increase of €420 ($455) per month in two stages, along with a one-time payment of €2850 to help offset inflation.
This agreement closes the chapter on the dispute between the train operating company and the GDL union, which led to six rounds of strikes since November 2023, causing disruptions in travel for thousands of passengers and disruptions in freight movement.
