Widespread Strikes at 22 German University Hospitals Demand Higher Wages

On January 27, 2026, approximately 300 employees at the University Hospital Jena participated in a full-day warning strike as part of a nationwide labor action across 22 university hospitals in Germany. The strike involved a range of staff, including nursing personnel, laboratory workers, and technical staff, who protested loudly in Jena-Lobeda for better pay and working conditions.

The labor union Verdi is demanding a 7% salary increase or at least 300 euros more per month, alongside higher allowances for unfavorable shift schedules such as night shifts. This action marks the second strike in the ongoing collective bargaining dispute aimed at pressuring employers to meet these demands.

Despite the strike, emergency care was maintained due to an agreement between the hospital and Verdi to ensure vital medical treatments continued uninterrupted. However, the hospital warned in advance that planned examinations and treatment appointments might be limited.

This coordinated strike across university hospitals represents a significant demonstration of staff grievances related to compensation and working conditions in the German healthcare sector. Verdi’s efforts underline the critical need for improvements to support those employed in demanding hospital roles. The nationwide involvement of 22 university clinics highlights the broad impact and solidarity within the health service workers across Germany.