BERLIN, Jan. 30 (Xinhua) -- Germany's second-largest trade union Verdi on Friday called for nationwide strikes affecting local public transport services next Monday.
The strikes will target municipal transport companies, with services in many cities expected to be largely suspended. Verdi said the action aims to increase pressure on employers amid ongoing negotiations over working conditions and pay.
The union is demanding improved working conditions, including shorter weekly working hours, reduced shift lengths and longer rest periods, as well as higher bonuses for night and weekend work. In several states, the talks also include demands for wage increases. Nearly 100,000 employees at around 150 municipal transport companies are expected to be affected.
Germany has seen a series of labor actions in recent days. On Thursday, about 12,000 teachers and education workers took part in a nationwide strike demanding higher pay, disrupting operations at universities, research institutions and state schools in several major cities. ■