Public sector strikes hit Mittelrhein and Palatinate on February 10

A day of chaos looms as workers demand fair wages. Will the strike force employers back to the negotiating table?

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2026 May 13 . 2:01 AM

1 min read

The image shows a large crowd of people holding signs and flags in front of a building, with trees... — The image shows a large crowd of people holding signs and flags in front of a building, with trees in the background and a clear blue sky above. The people are gathered together in a protest, likely in response to the government's decision to ban the use of green flags.

Verdi calls for strike action in the public service - Public sector strikes hit Mittelrhein and Palatinate on February 10

Public sector workers in the Mittelrhein and Palatinate districts will stage warning strikes on February 10. The Verdi union has called for the action as part of ongoing pay negotiations. Hospitals, universities, and childcare centres will all face disruptions during the walkout. The strikes come as workers push for a 7% wage increase, with a guaranteed minimum rise of €300 per month. Verdi has organised a protest march in Mainz, followed by a rally at noon. Two daycare centres operated by Studierendenwerk in the city will also close for the day.

Emergency care plans will remain active in state-run hospitals to ensure critical services continue. The next round of talks between the union and employers is set for February 11–13. Verdi’s action follows weeks of stalled negotiations over pay and working conditions. The union has warned of further strikes if no agreement is reached soon.

The warning strikes will disrupt public services across the region for a day. Emergency provisions will cover essential hospital care, but other facilities will remain shut. Negotiations resume the following day, with both sides under pressure to find a resolution.