As of: February 10, 2026 6:07 a.m
Hamburg is bracing for disruptions today as unions ver.di and dbb Nord launch warning strikes, with some protesters planning a dramatic demonstration in the Elbe River to protest what they call the “coldness of employer policy.”
“We’re going swimming so that the north doesn’t drown,” declared the dbb Nordverbund, anticipating around 3,000 participants in a demonstration starting at the Landungsbrücken and moving to the Magellan Terraces in Hafencity. Some protesters intend to enter the chilly Elbe River as a symbolic act against perceived inflexibility in negotiations.
Disruptions Expected at Public Offices, Police, and Courts
Unions are warning of potential disruptions at district offices, vehicle registration offices, Hamburg Service centers, police stations, and the judiciary. A strike at the Veterinary and Import Office (VEA) is expected to cause delays in container handling at the Port of Hamburg.
Third Round of Negotiations Set for Wednesday
The strikes are a prelude to the third round of collective bargaining for public sector employees in the federal states, scheduled to begin Wednesday in Potsdam. Unions are demanding a 7 percent pay increase, with a minimum increase of 300 euros per month. They are also advocating for the permanent employment of more young professionals and collective bargaining agreements for student workers at universities.
