Hospital patients in Germany face disruption as Verdi begins two-day strike

In anticipation of negotiations on March 14th, the Verdi union is escalating its campaign for better pay and conditions for public sector workers, particularly in sectors predominantly occupied by women. A nationwide strike will affect around 200 hospitals, care homes, and emergency centers, highlighting issues like the 16% gender pay gap in Germany. Verdi emphasizes the vital contributions made by these workers and insists on fair compensation. The planned demonstrations coincide with Equal Pay Day and aim to spotlight the ongoing inequalities faced by women in the workforce. The employers are criticized for failing to present an offer in talks.

"It is time for women to be paid fairly for their indispensable work," said Verdi deputy chairwoman Christine Behle. "We are not only demanding fair pay for typically female professions, but also structural changes that enable fair working conditions."

"Most people in this country are aware of what employees in hospitals and care facilities, in psychiatric wards and in the emergency services do for society every day," said Verdi national board member Sylvia Bühler. "But employers are failing to recognise it."

Read at The Local Germany