The demonstration, called by the main unions CCOO and UGT, marched along Via Laietana from Plaça Urquinaona to Plaça de Correus. Union leaders highlighted the importance of the day to denounce the impact of global conflicts on the working class and criticize far-right policies, as well as the housing crisis.
“"This country does not have a problem of absenteeism, but of presenteeism. People, despite being sick, go to work because we live with companies that are not democratic."
According to the organizers, the protest gathered 10,000 participants, while the Guàrdia Urbana estimated the figure at 2,500. In addition to Barcelona, mobilizations were held in other Catalan cities such as Tarragona, Girona, Lleida, Terrassa, Tortosa, Igualada, and Reus.
During the final speeches, the CCOO representative rejected the employers' claims about "fraud" in sick leave, defending workers' right to health. She also called for mobilization on May 5 in front of the Parliament to demand 2% of the GDP for the dependency law, funded by taxes on large fortunes and companies.
“"Those of you queuing on the AP-7, you can queue because unionism made May Day a holiday."
For its part, the UGT representative highlighted the historical struggle of unionism and praised the migrant regularization process. He repeatedly spoke out against fascism, warning about the consequences of the far-right and its ability to divide society. The day concluded with traditional anthems.
