The May 1st demonstrations in Strasbourg in 2024 saw a significant decrease in attendance compared to the previous year, but reached a level of mobilization similar to previous events. The theme of “social justice and peace” resonated with international current events, attracting a diverse crowd of left-wing supporters and activists advocating for various causes, including workers’ rights and Palestine. The weakening of union unity, with some confederations choosing not to participate, may have contributed to the lower turnout compared to the previous year’s protests against pension reform.
According to the Paris police prefecture, around 18,000 people marched from Place de la République to Place de la Nation, a significant drop from the 2023 turnout. However, union sources claim there were actually 50,000 protesters in the capital. Across the country, the Ministry of the Interior reported 121,000 participants, a sharp decline from the 800,000 protesters in the previous year. The CGT union provided a more optimistic estimate of over 210,000 participants nationwide. The message of the demonstrations focused on opposition to government policies, particularly criticizing the social welfare reforms and perceived disregard for workers’ rights.
In the Paris march, five labor organizations and youth advocacy groups led the procession, denouncing government actions and policies. The CGT’s general secretary criticized the planned unemployment insurance reform as “violent” and “unjustified”, warning that it would lead to reduced rights for job seekers. Protesters expressed their discontent through banners, signs, and chants, targeting President Emmanuel Macron as the embodiment of policies favoring the wealthy. Despite limited expectations for the impact of the May 1st demonstrations, participants emphasized the importance of symbolic resistance against government projects, such as the reform of the civil service aimed at merit-based pay and easier dismissals.
The decreased turnout at the 2024 May Day demonstrations reflects a shift in public engagement and union mobilization compared to previous years. While the focus on social justice and peace remained central, the overall impact and visibility of the protests were diminished by the absence of some major unions and reduced participation nationwide. The criticisms of government policies and the call for greater social justice underscore ongoing discontent and opposition to perceived injustices, especially regarding labor reforms and economic inequality. The varying estimates of participation highlight the divergent perspectives on the significance and effectiveness of the protests in challenging government actions and advocating for workers’ rights and social welfare.
