WORKERS across the world took to the streets today, marking International Workers’ Day by protesting against the pressure of rising prices and demanding better employment rights.
In Istanbul, Turkish police fired tear gas and rubber bullets to disperse thousands of people who tried to break through a barricade and reach Taksim Square, where May Day celebrations are banned.
The square holds symbolic value for trade unions. In 1977, unidentified gunmen opened fire on a May Day celebration in the square, causing a stampede and killing 34 people.
One hundred years after 1.7m workers shut the country down in defence of the miners, the struggles that sparked the 1926 General Strike are still with us – and will be honoured on London’s May Day march this year, writes MARY ADOSSIDES
AMNON BROWNFIELD STEIN reports on the Israeli national strike as thousands call for an end to the war


