On May 1, 2025, labor unions across France rallied in a series of demonstrations to mark International Workers' Day, a day deeply rooted in the history of labor rights and social justice. In Fort-de-France, Martinique, unions emphasized unity in their fight against deteriorating working conditions, while in regions like Drôme and Ardèche, thousands took to the streets to express their demands for fair wages and social equity.
In Fort-de-France, the CFDT (Confédération française démocratique du travail) planned to march separately, starting at 9 AM at the IMS (Institut Martiniquais du Sport). However, a larger gathering of various unions was set for 8 AM at the Maison des Syndicats, where they aimed to present a united front. The unions expressed that this year’s march would focus on pressing issues such as job insecurity, unpaid wages, and the non-compliance with the Labor Code. They also highlighted the challenges posed by blocked pensions, reduced public service resources, and the harsh conditions faced by the unemployed seeking social assistance.
"We must unite against the degradation of working conditions," stated a representative during the rally. The cost of living and low wages in demanding professions, particularly in hospitality and agriculture, were also key concerns raised by the unions. This solidarity among workers was seen as essential to address these urgent issues.
Meanwhile, in Drôme and Ardèche, twelve demonstrations took place, attracting approximately 500 participants in Valence, 270 in Annonay, 250 in Aubenas, and smaller crowds in several other towns. The atmosphere was charged with calls for social justice, including demands to revert the retirement age to 62, a fairer distribution of wealth, and improved public services. The feminist collective Les Rosies was also present, advocating against the rising tide of extreme-right politics in France.
In Valence, demonstrators voiced their frustrations loudly, calling for equality between men and women, and a return to a more equitable society. The CGT, one of the major labor unions, criticized the growing influence of extreme-right ideologies, describing it as a threat to democracy and social justice.
As the day unfolded, Saint-Etienne saw over 1,000 demonstrators marching through the streets, with significant participation reported in Roanne and Puy-en-Velay as well. The CGT of the Loire emphasized the importance of defending democracy and international law, referencing current geopolitical issues like the situations in Ukraine and Palestine.
At the heart of the Saint-Etienne demonstration, participants expressed their concerns about deteriorating working conditions. One demonstrator, a public service nurse named Manon, shared, "We feel exploited. Our working conditions are getting worse, and we are losing all social gains." Another participant, Jean, a 29-year-old, voiced his fears about the future, stating, "I’m here to fight against extreme-right ideologies and the regression of social rights. I’m having a child in September, and I worry about the world they will inherit."
As the demonstrations continued, the mood was one of defiance and determination. The CGT in Saint-Etienne declared that May 1, 2025, was not just a day of celebration but a day of combat for workers' rights and social equity. Their message was clear: "We want to live not by charity but through the sharing of wealth."
Across France, estimates indicated that between 100,000 and 150,000 people participated in more than 260 demonstrations, reflecting a widespread call for social justice and labor rights.
The origins of Labor Day date back to the late 19th century, rooted in the struggles of workers seeking an eight-hour workday, a fight that tragically led to violence in Chicago in 1886. The Second Socialist International later established May 1 as a day of international mobilization in 1889, commemorating the sacrifices made by labor activists. Today, it stands as a symbol of workers' rights across many nations.
In the European Union, 24 out of 27 member states recognize May 1 as a public holiday, with various traditions marking the day. In France and Spain, demonstrations are the norm, while Italy celebrates with concerts, and Germany observes the raising of the May tree in festive gatherings. In Finland, the day combines social demands with spring celebrations, while Greece honors it with flower festivals.
This year, as workers across the continent gathered, they did so not only to celebrate their rights but to voice their ongoing struggles against economic inequality, rising living costs, and the threat of regressive politics. The message was clear: the fight for workers' rights continues, and the solidarity among labor unions remains a powerful force in advocating for social justice.
