Militarization in Europe

On May 1, hundreds of events commemorating International Workers’ Day took place across Europe, with tens of thousands of workers mobilizing for better working conditions, an end to austerity, and a radical rethinking of the region’s role in the world. Rallies and marches sought to reclaim the political significance of May Day, as left and progressive groups joined trade unions to reaffirm the need for a militant labor movement to confront the far right, militarization, and exploitation. Demands ranged from workplace-centered issues, like improved health and safety and shorter working hours, to broader international calls for peace, the severing of ties with Israel, and a rejection of racism and austerity.