Europe: Workers' organizations plan demonstrations in multiple cities May 1 to mark Labor Day

Unionized workers and activist groups plan to demonstrate in multiple cities to mark Labor Day, May 1. Protests will likely occur in most European capital cities and other urban centers. Attendance is likely to be higher than in previous years due to the ongoing widespread civil unrest in multiple countries; discontent is linked to the cost of living, pay, impacts of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, and climate-related protests. Due to the conflict in the Middle East, political activists will likely also participate, increasing the risk of violent clashes during the events. The largest gatherings will occur in the following cities:

• Athens, Greece: Participants will gather from 10:30 at Syntagma Square.

• Berlin, Germany: Participants will gather from 10:30 at the intersection of Karl-Marx-Allee and Pariser Kommune Street and march to Rathaus Street, where participants will likely remain through the afternoon. Other minor events will likely occur in the city.

• London, UK: Labor unions will lead a march at 13:00 from Clerkenwell Green to Trafalgar Square.

• Paris, France: Activists will march from Place de la Republique at 14:00 to Place de la Nation. Authorities estimate between 15,000-30,000 people will participate.

Other possible protest gathering sites include town centers, cultural sites, and other popular rally locations.

Authorities will likely enact increased security measures, including deploying additional personnel, at any gathering site. Localized transport and business disruptions may occur, particularly if there is a high turnout or protesters occupy nearby streets. Clashes are possible if police forcibly disperse demonstrators or activists attempt to breach any security barriers.