Two German unions representing transport workers have called strikes next Monday that are expected to cause widespread problems at railways and airports, in yet another transport chaos in Germany caused by wage disputes.

The strikes, which are expected to start just after midnight and affect services throughout Monday, will be the latest in a series of strikes and walkouts that have hit major European economies as higher food and energy prices have weighed on incomes. and living standards.

The Verdi union is negotiating on behalf of 2.5 million public sector workers, including those in public transport and airports. The rail and transport workers’ union EVG is negotiating on behalf of around 230,000 workers at Deutsche Bahn and bus transport companies.

Verdi is asking for a 10.5% pay rise, with the salary increasing by at least €500 per month, while EVG is asking for a 12% increase or at least €650 more per month.

“We represent groups of workers who actually move this country and are paid far too little to do so,” said Verdi chairman Frank Wernecke.

Verdi has called on around 120,000 workers in the transport and infrastructure sectors, including airports, shipping companies and highway management companies, to join the mobilisation.

Deutsche Bahn and other state organizations offer around a 5% salary increase on average alongside a severance payment of up to €2,500.

“We don’t want further escalation. We want a negotiable proposal,” said Martin Burkert, president of the EVG union, which represents 50 transport companies, including rail operator Deutsche Bahn. According to EVG, the case of new strikes near the Catholic Easter holidays in April cannot be ruled out.

Deutsche Bahn criticized the planned strikes as unfounded and unnecessary, calling for a responsible bid by management. The company said it expects widespread problems in rail transport across the country.

German airport union ADV also condemned the strikes expected to affect around 380,000 airline travelers on Monday.