The National Council has already decided that the increase for 2026 should be 0.3 percent above inflation, which corresponds to about 3.3 percent. However, for budgetary reasons, the government wants to change the decision and threatens with zero wage rounds in the following years if no agreement is reached. The first talks last week ended without result, and the unions are consulting internally on the further course of action.

Zero Wage Round for Civil Servants Unacceptable for Union in Renegotiations

The goal is sustainable and fair solutions, write Quin and Meidlinger. Both unions emphasize that the negotiations will first show what offers the employer side will present and that these will be critically examined.

In the press release, Quin called the announced zero wage rounds for 2027 and 2028 "deeply unfair and completely unacceptable." However, they are willing to "discuss alternative solutions." Willingness to talk should not be confused with yielding: "We are entering these negotiations with an open mind."

What matters alone is the benefit a salary agreement brings to all colleagues, emphasized Meidlinger, who is responsible for municipal employees as younion chief. Unilaterally terminating an already made agreement is out of the question. Such interventions would jeopardize the foundation of social partnership. In a press release, younion emphasized that countries, cities, and municipalities must commit to adopting the agreement. Quin explained on goed.tv that the reason for entering negotiations despite the legal decision is that the proposals from the employer side are not yet known - and: "Only those who know all options can ultimately achieve the best possible outcome for colleagues. He still cannot predict "whether we will find a solution that is acceptable to both sides."

Civil Servant State Secretary Pröll Acknowledges Union

The government reacted with pleasure to the announcement. It deserves great recognition that the social partners are taking responsibility in these economically challenging times and thus doing the right thing for Austria, wrote Civil Servant State Secretary Alexander Pröll (ÖVP) in a press release. It is the first time in the second republic that an already existing agreement is being negotiated. The goal is a sustainable solution for all. Finance Minister Markus Marterbauer (SPÖ) stated that given the tense budget situation, all parts of the population must contribute, and the public service, in particular, has a special state political responsibility. He is optimistic about the upcoming negotiations. NEOS negotiator Martina von Künsberg Sarre saw a societal effort that requires a contribution from everyone.

(APA/Red)

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