May Day Protest in Slavonski Brod 2017.

Slavonski Brod, 01.05.2017. – More than 8,000 workers gathered for the Labor Day protest in Slavonski Brod. The unions emphasized that this is a time for awakening the workforce, not a day of rest. The column from the railway station to the fortress was over a kilometer long, and the protesters clearly stated they want an increase in the minimum wage and greater social sensitivity from the state and employers.

Messages from the Banners

The unions emphasized that workers want to fight for a dignified life from work. The banners carried strong messages such as: “It’s the last moment to defend workers and jobs” and “It’s beautiful in Croatia, but the money is in Germany“. This highlighted the mass emigration and insecurity faced by many employees.

Parade and Communal Gathering

The union parade ended at the Slavonski Brod fortress, where a workers’ celebration with traditional bean stew was organized for participants and citizens. More than 4,000 portions were distributed, and the gathering with food and sunny weather brought at least temporary relief and unity in a difficult everyday life.

Train of Solidarity

Unionists arrived from Zagreb on the “Train of Solidarity”, one of the largest railway compositions. They stated they want to show support for the region, which is among the least developed parts of Croatia. The president of SSSH, Mladen Novosel, emphasized that they want to send a message that Slavonia and its people deserve cleaner air, better living conditions, and to stop the population exodus.

Messages from Union Leaders

Krešimir Sever

The president of the Independent Croatian Unions, Krešimir Sever, highlighted that Labor Day should be a day of celebration, but in reality, workers face inequality: “Employers generously pay their managers, while workers are always left behind.”

Vilim Ribić

The president of the Independent Union of Science and Higher Education, Vilim Ribić, reminded of the messages from the streets: “May 1st is not a day of rest, but a day of resistance!” . He emphasized the need to protect democracy and social justice and to fight for wages and workers’ dignity, despite the pressures from the wealthy elite.