Workers in the public sector across the German state of Schleswig-Holstein took to the streets on Tuesday, January 14, 2026, as unions ver.di and GEW escalated pressure in ongoing wage negotiations. Demonstrations took place in Kiel and Lübeck, with approximately 300 people participating in Lübeck and 500 in Kiel, demanding improved pay.
Strikes Disrupt Services Across the Region
The coordinated warning strikes involved employees of the University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein (UKSH) in both Kiel and Lübeck. Members of the Education and Science Workers’ Union (GEW) also joined the protests, alongside smaller actions planned by members of the German Police Union (GdP). Beyond Kiel and Lübeck, strikes were reported in Neumünster, as well as the districts of Plön and Rendsburg-Eckernförde, impacting schools and other educational institutions.
To maintain essential services, ver.di stated that a minimum staffing level would be maintained at the UKSH locations to ensure life-threatening situations are addressed. The Zentrum für integrative Psychiatrie in Lübeck and agencies responsible for road construction, preservation of historical monuments, and other state offices were also affected.
Negotiations Continue Amidst Stalled Talks
The unions are seeking a 7% wage increase for public sector employees, or a minimum of €300 per month. However, the Association of German Municipal Employers (TdL) has deemed these demands unaffordable. Schleswig-Holstein’s Finance Minister Silke Schneider (Greens) cited the challenging budgetary situation facing the state.
Initial negotiations in December yielded no results, prompting earlier strikes by employees of road maintenance crews. Further talks are scheduled for Thursday and Friday in Potsdam, where ver.di and dbb representatives will meet with state employers.
Das ist ein Spannungsfeld. Wir müssen gute Kräfte finden, wir müssen sie sichern. Und da ist die Besoldung natürlich ein ganz wichtiger Teil und gleichzeitig muss es natürlich bezahlbar bleiben.
Schleswig-Holsteins Finanzministerin Silke Schneider (Grüne)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the warning strikes?
The warning strikes are intended to increase pressure on employers to meet the demands of the unions ver.di and GEW for higher wages in the public sector.
Which sectors are affected by the strikes?
The strikes are impacting hospitals, schools, educational institutions, road maintenance, historical preservation, and other state offices in Schleswig-Holstein.
When are the next negotiations scheduled?
The next round of negotiations between ver.di, dbb, and state employers is scheduled for Thursday and Friday in Potsdam.
As negotiations continue, it remains to be seen whether a compromise can be reached that satisfies both the demands of the unions and the budgetary limitations of the state. Will the upcoming talks in Potsdam lead to a breakthrough, or could further industrial action be on the horizon?
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