Reflections on the General Strike of 30 May
A further step: This strike is a further step in the protest and struggle of the different trade union and social agents to stop the destruction of rights and the impoverishment of society. It was the sixth general strike in 5 years, which highlights the existence of a collectively organised society that is ready to fight the policies leading to such an unprecedented social decline.
A further step: This strike is a further step in the protest and struggle of the different trade union and social agents to stop the destruction of rights and the impoverishment of society. It was the sixth general strike in 5 years, which highlights the existence of a collectively organised society that is ready to fight the policies leading to such an unprecedented social decline.The strike had three fundamental core areas:l to discredit the policies that we are sufferingl to protest to defend and collectivize an alternative l to consolidate a trade union and social space that does not accept the extension of poverty.The social situation is dramatic and requires solutions that prioritise the welfare of individuals and collectives. The people in power tells us that "there is no other alternative”: But it is not true. There is an alternative if we are willing to take on the economic powers that be. There is an alternative to challenge the European model, clearly in favour of capital; there is an alternative to end the debt and deficit discipline, to defend worthwhile employment, wages and public pensions, to change fiscal policy and come up with markedly social budgets. Yes there is an alternative.There is no question over the usefulness of the strike to achieve that aim. That awareness raising has involved the thousands and thousands of meetings held, the explanation of the alternative proposals, etc., is notably being felt in the social fabric. It is true there was no u-turn in policies the day after the strike. But without the strike, there would be no real deterrent for even tougher policies. This explains the need for a sustained and permanent protest that will lead to a change of policies. Striking is thus an instrument of great value, the best instrument to collectively channel the weariness and indignation of society. It is, in short, a further stepping stone in the fight needed to defend our rights and achieve a fairer and more solidarity society.