Solidarity with the European peoples in struggle!

In recent weeks, the signs of anger among the peoples of Europe have been increasing: a general strike in Portugal, demonstrations of historic proportions in Ireland, the student movement in England and, hopefully, the beginning of a lasting movement following the mobilizations over pension reforms in France. [Français] [Castellano] [Português] [Italiano] [Català]

---

Solidarity with the European peoples in struggle!

In recent weeks, the signs of anger among the peoples of Europe have been increasing: a general strike in Portugal, demonstrations of historic proportions in Ireland, the student movement in England and, hopefully, the beginning of a lasting movement following the mobilizations over pension reforms in France. Though the slogans may vary from one country to the next, the revolt has the same origin: the peoples' refusal to pay for a crisis they did not cause, to have to put up with austerity measures by themselves, without the capitalists having to pay.

The case of Ireland is emblematic - reduced social benefits, civil service staff and pay cuts, the extension of income tax to those who do not currently pay - the lowest-paid workers. The government refuses to touch corporate tax, however, one of the lowest in Europe. The Irish people are refusing to bow down and tens of thousands of protesters stormed the streets last weekend to say NO.

In Britain and Ireland, university fees have shot up, making access to higher education ever more dependant on having money. Once again, students responded with a particularly combative protest movement.

Do not be fooled: if the European Union and the IMF imposes its austerity plans, it is not out of economic necessity, since these plans will only serve to plunge countries even more into recession; it is because they see the crisis as an historic opportunity to get rid of the few social rights we have left.

Faced with this, we must respond with the struggle and solidarity between the workers in affected countries. Faced with these attacks, internationalism is more necessary than ever: we need a Europe-wide social movement.

Alternative Libertaire stands in solidarity with all people struggling against austerity measures and the barbarism of capitalism.

Alternative Libertaire

29 November 2010

Translation by FdCA - International Relations Office