Stories from Berlin · Germany

The German Trade Union Confederation (DGB) reported that hundreds of thousands of people participated in May Day demonstrations across Germany. More than 400 events were registered nationwide. The central rally took place in a major city, according to the DGB. The union's motto for the day was 'Our jobs, then your profits.' The protests occurred on May 1st. Approximately 360,000 people participated in protests in Germany, demanding the resignation of Chancellor Friedrich Merz. Demonstrators also opposed a decrease in the population's standard of living under his government.

Two hundred and thirty organizations worldwide are calling for increased justice and environmental protection within the clothing industry. Activists from various countries arrived at the port of Lavrion via cargo ship following coordination between the Greek and Israeli Ministries of Foreign Affairs. The group traveled by bus from Lavrion to Heraklion airport to organize travel to their home countries. Two members of the fleet are expected to be transferred to Israel for interrogation, according to Israeli reports. Seven Chilean nationals, including anthropologist Franco Torti, have been released following their detention as part of a global flotilla. The group was part of an effort to raise awareness regarding an ongoing conflict. The release follows the previous interception of the vessels. Spain's foreign minister has demanded that Israel release Spanish activist Safe Abdukeshek.

German security agencies BKA, BND, MAD, and the Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution launched an information campaign in September 2025 to counter Russian recruitment efforts on social media.

Germany has closed its last nuclear power plants.

Yasmin Fahimi, Federal Chair of the German Trade Union Confederation (DGB), called for resistance against upcoming federal government reforms regarding worker rights. Fahimi stated that the union would oppose any attacks on co-determination rights in companies. She warned that attempts to pit workers against each other would be met with resistance. The remarks were made during an address to DGB members regarding the proposed legislative changes. DGB Federal Chairwoman Yasmin Fahimi stated that the union will resist government reforms targeting worker co-determination rights and attempts to divide labor groups. She described the union's solidarity as an unshakeable force against those attempting to make workers scapegoats. The remarks focused on protecting existing labor laws and worker influence within businesses.

Up to 20,000 people are expected to participate in events in Berlin today. More than 5,000 police officers have been deployed across the city to manage the gatherings. Various events are also scheduled in Brandenburg, including in Potsdam and Cottbus.

Left-wing and left-wing radical groups are scheduled to hold a May Day demonstration in Berlin. Approximately 5,300 police officers from eleven German states were deployed throughout the day to secure the various demonstrations. Approximately 10,000 people participated in a May Day demonstration in the Kreuzberg district of Berlin on Thursday evening. A police spokesperson told RBB that there were no reports of incidents or arrests at that time. Police accompanied more than 90 events and gatherings across the city on May 1. A large May Day demonstration took place in Berlin, Germany. A portion of the protest was dedicated to expressing solidarity with Palestine. The event occurred on May 1, which is a public holiday for workers in Germany. The demonstration provided an opportunity for unions and workers to voice their concerns and demands.

Vice Chancellor Lars Klingbeil defended Chancellor Friedrich Merz against criticism from Donald Trump. Klingbeil is reportedly pushing for speed on the planned reform. Federal Finance Minister Klingbeil is accelerating plans for an income tax reform. Klingbeil noted that those who keep the economy running must have more money in their pockets. The relief must be realistically financed, with high earners making six-figure salaries contributing their share. Germany's Defense Minister stated that stationing troops in Europe, particularly in Germany, serves the interests of both the United States and Germany. Bundestag President Klöckner confirmed the German national flag will not fly at the Berlin CSD in July. The decision follows the precedent set last year on May 17 during the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Transphobia and Interphobia.

As of April 30, gas storage levels in Germany stood at 25 percent according to the unified gas storage register. Approximately 65 percent of the storage facilities have been reserved, according to a report by Spiegel.

A new plan aims to save approximately 16 billion euros by reducing dental subsidies and increasing co-payments for medications. The plan also includes the total removal of homeopathy from covered health insurance benefits.