German Railway Strikes (2014-2015)
The GDL train drivers' union conducted nine strikes over eight months against Deutsche Bahn, the most disruptive rail action in German history. The dispute centered on whether GDL could represent additional employee groups beyond drivers.
The strikes caused billions in economic losses and prompted calls for legislation restricting union strike rights.
Germany passed the Tarifeinheitsgesetz (Collective Bargaining Unity Act) in 2015, requiring employers to negotiate with only the largest union per workplace. However, the law has not prevented subsequent strikes by smaller unions in aviation.
Illustrates that German labor law provides significant strike protections even for disruptive actions, but prolonged disputes can generate political backlash. Lufthansa may be wary of a months-long conflict that invites regulatory intervention.
