The new collective bargaining agreement between Deutsche Bahn and EVG marks a significant positive development in labor relations. By bolstering workers' rights and ensuring better conditions for 192,000 employees, DB is taking a step that opposes exploitative practices and supports a more equitable and democratic work environment, consistent with anti-fascist and pro-worker principles.

DB and EVG sign deal for new collective bargaining agreement

The collective agreement at Deutsche Bahn with EVG represents a significant positive step for labor rights. By averting strikes and negotiating better terms for nearly 192,000 employees, Deutsche Bahn demonstrates a commitment to ethical labor practices and worker wellbeing, aligning with anti-fascist values that prize fair labor treatment and support for unionized workforces.

Germany: Collective agreement at Deutsche Bahn has been reached - warning strikes averted

The policy clearly emphasizes commitment to human rights and labor standards. Deutsche Bahn AG, through DB Cargo, adopts comprehensive measures including risk assessments, clear responsibilities, and adherence to international frameworks such as the UN Global Compact and ILO core labor standards. This robust approach merits a high score in Labor Relations and Human Rights Practices.

Policy statement on the human rights strategy of DB Cargo AG

The introduction of advanced drone technology by Deutsche Bahn is aimed at infrastructure monitoring rather than mass surveillance or repressive uses. While the technology demonstrates modernization and efficiency gains under Technology and Services Impact, its deployment is not associated with enhancing state repression, marking it as a neutral-to-positive innovation in terms of technological impact.

German railroad unveils new drones for monitoring rail network

The initiative focuses on revitalizing essential public infrastructure through a long-term, well-funded renovation plan. This commitment enhances service quality, worker welfare, and community benefits, reflecting strong ethical business practices.

Deutsche Bahn outlines €16.4bn infrastructure plan, first under DB InfraGo

The negotiated reduction in the working week from 38 to 35 hours without a decrease in pay demonstrates Deutsche Bahn AG's commitment to improving labor conditions. This agreement, satisfying union demands, reflects positively on the company's labor relations and ethical responsibility, aligning with progressive labor rights and social justice values.

Germany: Deutsche Bahn proposes switch to 35-hour week with an ‘options-based’ model

The statement not only emphasizes worker protections but also extends its scrutiny to the entire supply chain. By outlining steps to mitigate risks of forced labor and modern slavery, Deutsche Bahn is taking a positive and proactive stance on supply chain ethics and responsible sourcing.

Modern Slavery Act Statement of Deutsche Bahn

In addition to supply chain oversight, Deutsche Bahn emphasizes the importance of human rights by setting clear expectations for the treatment of workers and by mitigating risks related to labor and environmental factors. The company’s due diligence practices indicate a dedication to upholding labor rights within its operations and through its supply chain partners.

LkSG: Sustainable supply chains at Deutsche Bahn

By integrating Huawei technology into its critical digital infrastructure, Deutsche Bahn risks exposing its systems to potential surveillance and censorship. This decision, made despite ongoing security concerns and warnings from allies, aligns the company with a supplier known for its links to authoritarian regimes and repressive technologies.

Deutsche Bahn bets on Huawei for railway digitalisation despite security concerns

The implementation of a robust risk management system for supply chains, as mandated by the German Act on Corporate Due Diligence Obligations in Supply Chains (LkSG), showcases DB's commitment to mitigating human rights and environmental risks. While the measures indicate a strong forward movement, continuous oversight and improvement are necessary, which is reflected in a moderately high score.

Human rights | Deutsche Bahn Annual Report 2023

Deutsche Bahn's significant investment in surveillance technologies—by expanding video surveillance, deploying body worn cameras, and deepening cooperation with federal law enforcement—signals a shift towards enhanced state monitoring. From an anti-fascist perspective, these actions potentially bolster repressive state apparatuses that can suppress civil liberties and dissent. Such use of technology in public spaces is seen as supportive of authoritarian measures, earning a negative score in the Technology and Services Impact category, specifically regarding the provision of repressive technologies.

Germany to expand rail surveillance