Europe News Unions protest EU Inc law over labour rights Unions say the Brussels plan to make it easier to start businesses across Europe could undermine national labour rights and standards. 24/09/2026
Business Volkswagen risks 'major conflict' with staff over cost-cutting drive Chief Executive Oliver Blume is considering cutting 100,000 jobs worldwide, around 16% of Volkswagen's global workforce, and closing three Volkswagen plants in Germany as well as one Audi factory, 09/07/2026
Travel News German pilots’ union announces further strikes at Lufthansa this week The latest round of strike action continues a recent trend of travel disruptions at Germany’s busiest hubs, throwing passenger journeys into uncertainty. 15/04/2026
France France bets on new nuclear reactors and renewables to power its future The government is preparing to publish a key energy roadmap, aiming for 60% electricity consumption by 2030, with six new nuclear reactors and a mix of renewable energies. 10/02/2026
Business Société Générale shares rise after announcement of 1,800 job cuts Société Générale is planning 1,800 job cuts in France through "natural attrition", a move unions say was presented after key employment safeguards were dismantled. 22/01/2026
Culture news Nicolas Sarkozy meets anger at Lyon book signing The former French President was in Lyon on Thursday to sign his latest book at a Fnac shop. On the sidelines of his visit, the CGT trade union, which is critical of management's political choices, organised a rally outside the store. 08/01/2026
No Comment Protests erupt in La Paz over Bolivia's fuel subsidy cuts Bolivia sees protests in La Paz after fuel subsidy cuts doubled prices. Workers marched for days as clashes broke out and talks with the government stalled. 06/01/2026
Culture news Fresh strike at Louvre museum as workers walkout over conditions The strike initially launched last month was suspended over the festive period, but staff have now voted overwhelmingly to walkout over working conditions leaving the world's most visited museum partially open. 06/01/2026
No Comment Hundreds join strike in Rome against 2026 budget plans Hundreds in Rome protested against Italy’s 2026 budget, demanding more investment in public services over defence, disrupting transport and healthcare. 12/12/2025
No Comment Portugal braces for general strike against new labour regulations Portugal prepares for its first general strike in 12 years on Thursday as unions protest labour reforms expected to disrupt transport, schools, hospitals and other services. 10/12/2025
Belgium What to expect as Belgium goes on strike for third day in a row Belgium faced major disruptions since Monday as trade unions staged a three-day strike against government austerity measures, affecting public transport, airports and ports. 26/11/2025
Business Uzbekistan strengthens labour rights through union-led reforms Uzbekistan’s trade unions mark 120 years of operation, by taking the lead in labour reform, pushing for equal pay, safer workplaces, and stronger employee rights. 06/11/2025
France French unions announce new strikes after failed talks with PM Lecornu France's trade unions call for new nationwide strike on 2 October to pile the pressure on new French Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu. 24/09/2025
France France braces for more major strikes and protests on Thursday All major unions have called for strikes and demonstrations against the government's budget measures. Major disruptions to transportation, schools, hospitals and public services are expected across the country. 17/09/2025
Business Greek unions speak out after government pushes for 13-hour workday The GSEE warns of a "medieval era" for workers. The Ministry of Labour calls it "modernisation" and an "adaptation to today’s workforce and business needs". 02/07/2025
Europe News Surprise strike at Hamburg airport a day earlier than expected A German trade union had called for strikes at 13 major German airports to take place on Monday - but then staged the strike at Hamburg airport on Sunday. 09/03/2025