Europe Rallies against Austerity Measures

European workers, angry over the recent wave of government spending cuts and tax increases, demonstrate in the streets of Brussels, Belgium. Photo by EPA/BGNES

Thousands of protesters from across Europe are taking part Wednesday in a mass demonstration in Brussels against spending cuts by some EU governments.

Wednesday has been declared by the labor unions a European Day against the austerity measures of some European cabinets. The Unions say the measures impede economic recovery and progress and punish the most disadvantaged with EU workers turning into the biggest victims of a financial crisis set off by bankers and traders.

The demonstrators in Brussels are carrying flags and banners reading "No to Spending Cuts," and "Priority for Jobs and Economic Growth." Reports say the banners include those of the Bulgarian labor union KNSB.

The march is led by a group of people dressed in black with black masks symbolizing a funeral procession mourning the death of Europe. The organizers include about 50 labor unions and nearly 100 000 are expected to attend. The police say there are 50 000 demonstrators.

Other protests against austerity measures are being held in Greece, Italy, Ireland and Latvia.

A general strike is also taking place in Spain, hitting transport and other public services.