As May Day approaches, Berlin braces for a series of demonstrations and events, with police preparing to ensure safety during the festivities. This year, around 5,700 police officers will be on duty in the city on May 1, 2025, as more than 30 demonstrations have been registered, according to the Berlin police.
Barbara Slowik Meisel, the Police President, expressed confidence in the police's ability to manage the situation, stating, "We have managed May 1st well in recent years, and this will also apply to this year." The police have a solid track record of handling the May Day events, which often attract large crowds and can sometimes lead to unrest.
In the lead-up to May Day, the eve of the celebrations, known as Walpurgis Night, saw a peaceful atmosphere across Berlin. The police reported that it was the "most peaceful Walpurgis Night of recent years," with minimal incidents. Demonstrations focused on feminist issues and high rents proceeded without major disruptions. A queer-feminist demonstration titled "Take Back the Night" attracted approximately 3,200 participants, and the event concluded peacefully around 23:15.
Another demonstration on the same night in the Wedding district, under the slogan "Increase wages, lower rents, create peace," involved around 500 people and ended without incident shortly after 19:00.
Despite the overall peaceful nature of the events, some minor disturbances occurred. A police spokesperson noted that there were isolated incidents involving the use of pyrotechnics and the throwing of small objects at officers during a demonstration in the Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg area. However, the spokesperson reassured that these incidents were not significant enough to cause serious concern, stating, "Nothing that falls outside the norm." Nevertheless, several investigations were initiated in response to these events.
Looking ahead to May 1, the Berlin Administrative Court has ruled that a planned rally in the Grunewald district, themed "Redistribution now more than ever," may utilize the green spaces on Johannaplatz. This decision came after the police initially sought to restrict access to these areas, claiming that it would disrupt public order. The applicant for the rally expects around 2,000 participants.
On May 1, the traditional trade union demonstration will commence in the morning, moving from Strausberger Platz to the Rotes Rathaus. The police anticipate a significant turnout, and the event is expected to draw thousands of participants.
In addition to the trade union demonstration, satirical protest actions will take place in the Grunewald villa district starting at noon, with the police estimating that up to 10,000 people may attend. This reflects the growing trend of using May Day as a platform for various social and political messages.
Later in the day, the "Revolutionary May 1st Demonstration" organized by left-wing and left-wing extremist groups is scheduled to take place in Kreuzberg at 18:00. This demonstration is expected to attract significant attention, as it is often marked by passionate speeches and calls for social justice.
As the city gears up for a day filled with protests, celebrations, and gatherings, the police remain vigilant, ready to respond to any challenges that may arise. The commitment to maintaining peace during these events reflects the ongoing efforts to balance the right to protest with public safety concerns.
Overall, Berlin's May Day celebrations and protests are set against a backdrop of social issues that continue to resonate with many residents. From calls for affordable housing to the push for higher wages, the demonstrations serve as a reminder of the ongoing struggles faced by various communities.
As the events unfold, the police will be closely monitoring the situation, ensuring that all participants can express their views safely and peacefully.
