1. Skip to content
  2. Skip to main menu
  3. Skip to more DW sites
PoliticsGermany

Public transport strike adds to weather chaos in Germany

February 2, 2026

Nearly 100,000 staff joined the day of action, with freezing temperatures adding to the misery for commuters. The strikers' demands contradict Chancellor Friedrich Merz's call for more working hours.

https://p.dw.com/p/57x5U

Berlin transport workers have launched a strike in freezing weather, demanding shorter hours, more leave and better rest periods. The walkout disrupts commuters as empty trams run to keep tracks from icing over. The dispute comes amid Chancellor Friedrich Merz's push for longer working hours to boost Germany’s economy. Drivers warn poor conditions could harm productivity, with more labor conflicts likely ahead.