Verdi demands collective bargaining in the SWR: strike as a means of pressure

Verdi demands collective bargaining in the SWR: strike as a means of pressure

collective bargaining at ARD: Community under pressure and path to solutions

The collective bargaining for the ARD broadcasters, including NDR, WDR, BR and SWR, have been in focus since January 2023, but without progress. This situation raises questions about the role of public service broadcasting and the economic security of employees.

The ver.di union calls for a strong increase in salaries by 10.5 percent and minimum increases of 500 euros and 250 euros for trainees. So far, the negotiations in nine rounds have not reached any significant agreement. This uncertainty and increasing cost of living mean that the employees have to justify themselves while fighting for better conditions.

The decision of ver.di is particularly noteworthy to suggest a collective bargaining in the SWR. This procedure aims to promote the talks with the help of a neutral person, since the previous talks did not lead to an agreement. "In view of the real wage losses, we should no longer remain standing standing," said Matthias von Fintel, the negotiator of ver.di. The situation illustrates the discomfort of the employees in the broadcasters, since there is a risk that they will be dismissed by general collective bargaining developments in the public service.

In the current negotiations, the SWR only offers an increase of around 2.4 percent per year as part of a three -year tariff conclusion. These offers are perceived as inadequate, especially against the background continuously increasing living costs.

The pressure on the ARD employees is reinforced by the ongoing strikes and protests that are directed against the disregard of their economic needs. At least on the part of the unions, there may now be hope that the arbitration agreement will bring movement in the stuck negotiations. A decision by the SWR on this proposal is expected for the upcoming Board of Directors on September 19 and 20, 2024.

The results of these negotiations are of great importance for the ARD employees and could serve as an indicator of future collective bargaining developments in the public sector. It remains to be seen whether the willingness to agree in the next round of the talks will be clear.