Thousands of public sector workers took to the streets of Berlin in a warning strike to protest austerity measures, low wages, and deteriorating working conditions. Demonstrators criticised government budget priorities, arguing that increased defence spending is being funded at the expense of social services, education, culture, and public infrastructure. The protest comes as Berlin’s parliament debates proposed cuts to social infrastructure in the 2026–2027 budget. Workers and unions are calling for fairer taxation, better pay, and a shift in political priorities to protect essential public services.
