Over 100,000 demonstrators across Europe gathered to protest against rising racism, fascism, and the growing influence of far-right politics. The protests, held in major cities including Amsterdam and Paris, were organized to coincide with the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination. With signs reading “Never Again” and passionate calls for justice, participants voiced their concerns about increasing extremism and the rise of exclusionary policies across Europe.
Amsterdam Protest Highlights Growing Fears Over Fascism
In Amsterdam’s Dam Square, more than 10,000 people marched to condemn the rise of far-right politics and racism. The rally was organized by groups such as Comité 21 Maart, Amnesty International, and Kick Out Zwarte Piet, who aimed to shed light on the dangers of increasing extremism across Europe. The march coincided with the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, which has been commemorated since its establishment by the United Nations in 1966.
Protesters carried banners reading “Never Again” to draw attention to the parallels between today’s political climate and the rise of fascism in the 20th century. The crowd also expressed solidarity with Palestinians facing ongoing violence in Gaza, as well as protesters in Turkey. Supporters waved Palestinian and Turkish flags, further emphasizing the call for international justice.
“I see racism increasing everywhere. I’m scared, so I came,” said one protester. Another participant remarked, “Fascism is rising again. I asked myself, what can I do? And I’m here.”
Protests Across France Show Solidarity Against Discrimination
In France, nearly 91,000 people participated in similar protests against racial discrimination and far-right political agendas. Paris alone saw over 21,000 protesters take to the streets, demanding justice and calling out the dangers of hate speech and extremism.
Protesters voiced their opposition to stricter immigration policies introduced by the French government, including tighter border enforcement measures. Many also rejected the influence of the far-right in French politics and called on President Emmanuel Macron to address what they see as rising complicity in global injustices, particularly the ongoing violence in Gaza.
Violence broke out in Paris when protesters clashed with riot police. Two individuals were arrested, and three people were injured, including one police officer. Despite the confrontations, the majority of the demonstrations remained peaceful, with participants carrying placards accusing President Macron of being complicit in what some labeled a genocide in Gaza.
Marches and Global Solidarity: A Call for Change
These demonstrations were part of a larger global movement commemorating the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination. This day was first established in 1966 after the tragic Sharpeville Massacre in South Africa, when police opened fire on peaceful demonstrators, killing 69 people. The United Nations designated March 21 as a day to raise awareness about racial discrimination and advocate for global action against such ideologies.
The rallies in Amsterdam, Paris, and other French cities such as Lyon and Toulouse marked a significant display of global solidarity against racial injustice. The protests underscored the ongoing struggles faced by marginalized communities in Europe and beyond, and the determination of citizens to confront the rising tide of racism and right-wing extremism.
The mass protests held across Europe demonstrate the growing public resistance to far-right politics and the continued fight against racism and discrimination. As Europe faces increasing political polarization, citizens are coming together to ensure that the lessons of history are not forgotten. With widespread calls for accountability and justice, these events reflect a pivotal moment in the ongoing struggle against political extremism.
