[REVISION HISTORY]

Netherlands regional transport labor dispute

Updated 5 times since CLSTR started tracking revisions of this situation.

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2026-10-21 12:31 UTC → 2026-10-21 17:25 UTC · added ~~removed~~

Labor disputes in the Netherlands have escalated following the collapse of negotiations between unions FNV and CNV and the employers' association VWOV regarding a new collective labor agreement (CAO). The unions are protesting proposed changes to working conditions, such as reduced sick pay and less control over schedules, while demanding wage increases between 6% and 9.5% over two years. Following the breakdown in talks, unions initiated a series of weekly strikes scheduled to occur one day per week through the Christmas period. The industrial action began in mid-October, impacting major regional providers including Arriva, EBS, Qbuzz, Keolis, and Transdev. While some operators like Arriva reported maintaining significant portions of their schedules, others like Keolis advised passengers to seek alternative transport. Notably, NS trains are not participating in the strike as they operate under a separate collective agreement. On October 22, workers were scheduled to hold a second major nationwide strike. Representing approximately 13,000 employees, the unions protested a ‘package of deteriorations,’ including shorter notice periods for roster changes and the introduction of up to 45 minutes of unpaid breaks per shift. However, ~~following~~ the planned strike for Thursday, October 22, has been cancelled. Following a new proposal from ~~employers,~~ the employers' organization VWOV, the unions have agreed to a two-week truce to resume negotiations. ~~This temporary suspension of strikes comes after~~ Union negotiators stated that employers ~~reportedly moved~~ have withdrawn previous proposals to ~~advance wage increases~~ worsen working conditions, such as unfavorable scheduling, and ~~removed certain proposals~~ have made concrete commitments regarding ~~less favorable scheduling. Unions~~ wages and regulations for older employees. While this suspension offers temporary relief for commuters, unions have ~~indicated they will resume industrial action~~ not ruled out future strikes if ~~negotiations fail to produce a final agreement.~~ an agreement is not reached, noting that new actions could potentially resume as early as November 4 or 7.

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