Deutsche Bahn's IT division faces 500 job cuts amid union backlash and protests
Rail and Transport Union Warns of Job Cuts at Deutsche Bahn's IT Provider DB Systel
The German Rail and Transport Union (EVG) has raised the alarm over potential job cuts at Deutsche Bahn's in-house IT service provider, DB Systel. The state-owned rail company has remained tight-lipped on the matter.
According to the EVG, up to 500 jobs at DB Systel's Erfurt location could be eliminated or transferred to other subsidiaries within the Deutsche Bahn group. The Thüringer Allgemeine newspaper reported the figures, citing union sources. Deutsche Bahn has declined to comment on specific numbers.
Union Fears Breakup of IT Hub
The EVG claims Deutsche Bahn is planning to redistribute DB Systel's responsibilities across other group companies. The union warns that this move not only threatens the Erfurt site but also poses risks to the entire IT infrastructure of the rail operator. Fragmenting operations, they argue, could undermine system stability and security—a concern heightened by recent disruptions caused by a major DDoS cyberattack on Deutsche Bahn.
DB Systel employs around 6,500 people across its three main locations in Erfurt, Berlin, and Frankfurt. In Erfurt alone, 700 staff work for the IT provider, with more than two-thirds potentially affected by the restructuring.
Deutsche Bahn Aims for a "Leaner, More Customer-Focused" Structure
A spokesperson for Deutsche Bahn confirmed to MDR Thüringen that the company intends to become "leaner and more customer-oriented" in the future, a shift that will also apply to DB Systel. Over the coming months, the group will develop corresponding strategies, though the spokesperson provided no concrete details on job cuts, relocations, or timelines.
Protests Planned at All Three Locations
In response, the EVG's DB Systel Erfurt works council has called for a rally in the Thüringen state capital next Wednesday, urging all employees at the site to participate. Simultaneous demonstrations are also planned in Berlin and Frankfurt.
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