Germany is bracing for widespread public sector strikes as negotiations between unions and employers for over 2.5 million workers have stalled.

The unions, Verdi and dbb, demand an 8% pay increase or at least €350 more per month, along with three additional vacation days and flexible work hour options.

However, employers have yet to present an offer, citing financial constraints in many municipalities.

Union leaders have announced plans for extensive strikes in childcare, public transport, and waste management, starting this week.

The third round of talks is scheduled for mid-March, but tensions remain high as both sides stand firm.