FIR: The Franco regime ended 50 years ago
https://www.wftucentral.org/fir-the-franco-regime-ended-50-years-ago/
The Franco regime ended 50 years ago On November 20, 1975, Spanish anti-fascists across Europe rejoiced when they learned of the death of Francisco Franco, the last surviving fascist ruler, who called himself “caudillo” (“leader”). Many European countries were home to Spanish anti-fascists in exile who had fled abroad after the Spanish Civil War of 1936-39 to escape political terror, the secret police, and other reprisals, and who supported the struggle for the liberation of their country from abroad. Francisco Franco, born in Ferrol, Galicia, in 1892, had made a name for himself as a ruthless officer in the colonial war in Morocco in the mid-1920s. In 1926, at the age of 33, he was promoted to general, making him the youngest in Europe at the time. When a handful of generals staged a coup against the Spanish Republic in mid-July 1936, Franco was the most popular figure in the group. Consequently, he took control of the rebellious parts of the army in the first months of the civil war. On October 1, 1936, he had himself elected “Head of the Spanish State” with full powers; the restriction originally intended to apply only for the duration of the conflict was no longer included in the certificate of appointment. After the end of the war, he proclaimed himself “generalísimo” and ruled with absolute power until his death. The foundation of his rule was the fascist party, the Falange. Founded in 1933 by José Antonio Primo de Rivera, it represented the ideology of reactionary National Catholicism. Falangists carried out street terror, arresting alleged enemies of Catholic Spain, torturing and murdering them. By 1939, half a million Spaniards had fled into exile, after which the country was transformed into a huge prison camp. Around 300 concentration and labor camps were set up, and penal battalions of Republican prisoners were forced to build infrastructure that is still important today: roads, canals, railway lines, even entire towns. More than 230,000 people, one percent of the population, were imprisoned in jails or camps in 1940. In addition to political terror, ideological conformity with the “Francoist Trinity” was enforced: a crucifix flanked by images of Franco and José Antonio Primo de Rivera. It goes without saying that Franco’s rule reversed all the social progress made by the Republic. There were repeated international solidarity campaigns for anti-fascists threatened with the death penalty, but at the same time Western governments continued their “policy of non-interference,” allowing the terror to continue unabated. Franco’s death in 1975 did not mean the end of Francoist rule. Arias Navarro had already been appointed prime minister in December 1973. On November 22, 1975, Juan Carlos swore before the Cortes to uphold the principles of the “National Movement,” i.e., Francoism. He was then proclaimed king by that same parliament. This marked the beginning of a process that still causes controversy today as the “transición” (transition from dictatorship to a parliamentary monarchy). Amnesty laws passed in 1976 and 1977, officially to restore freedom to political prisoners, are still used today to protect Francoist torturers and murderers from prosecution at home and abroad. There was no real break with the past. Francoist legislation was carried over into the new era, and for 30 years those in power failed to implement any measures to overcome the traces of the dictatorship. Instead, in 1989, former Franco minister Manuel Fraga founded the conservative Partido Popular (PP), now part of the EPP group in the European Parliament, as the most important bourgeois party. For several years now, there has been a “movement for historical memory,” in which mass graves have been exhumed so that the victims of Francoism can be buried with dignity. This year, the government announced the program “España en libertad. 50 años” (Spain in Freedom. 50 Years) with exhibitions, readings, discussions in schools and educational institutions, and documentary films, which is actively supported by the member associations of the FIR. But the Francoists are not giving up. A Christian ceremony in honor of Franco and José-Antonio Primo de Rivera was announced for November 29, 2025, in Paris. Due to public protests, the event had to be canceled. However, it shows that even 50 years after his death, Franco’s supporters are still influential and active.
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China-Japan friction over Taiwan should give pause to U.S. imperialism
https://www.peoplesworld.org/article/china-japan-friction-over-taiwan-should-give-pause-to-u-s-imperialism/
Diplomatic firestorm has broken out between China and Japan over Taiwan, which has stark lessons for U.S.-China relations and the possibility of war over Taiwan. Japan’s new prime minister, Sanae Takaichi, addressing parliament in Tokyo on Nov. 7, said that Chinese military action against Taiwan could be regarded as a crisis of national survival and […]
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Belgium: three-day national strike against the government’s reform plans
https://www.wftucentral.org/belgium-three-day-national-strike-against-the-governments-reform-plans/
Today is the final day of the three-day national strike against the government’s reform plans
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WFTU Statement for the 29th of November International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People
https://www.wftucentral.org/wftu-statement-for-the-29th-of-november-international-day-of-solidarity-with-the-palestinian-people/
The 29th of November is observed as the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian people. The World Federation of Trade Unions expresses its unwavering solidarity with the heroic Palestinian people in their struggle for freedom, dignity, and justice. This year marks more than two years since the beginning of the genocide against our brothers and sisters in Palestine, where over 63,000 lives have been lost, with numbers tragically increasing. The cessation of military operations in Gaza strip is certainly a development that relieves every progressive and peace-loving person. However, despite the fanfare and self-congratulations of the so-called peacemakers, the criminal Netanyahu history has proven that agreements like this one, imposed by the imperialists “with a gun to the head”, can bring neither just nor lasting peace, because they serve the interests of the monopolies, not those of the peoples. It is an agreement that buries the just and lawful aspirations of the Palestinian people for an end to the occupation and the establishment of their own independent state. The agreement on which the ceasefire is based, as well as the entire management of its implementation, takes place under the control and supervision of the United States, which has always been the consistent ally of Israel. The incredible brutality demonstrated by the murderous Israeli state, which cost the lives of tens of thousands of civilians—most of whom were children, women, and the elderly—the massive destruction of homes, hospitals, schools, and, in general, of the most basic infrastructure for a dignified life, and the violent displacement of millions of people from their places of residence, are acts committed before the eyes of the entire humanity. For these crimes, the Israeli state and those responsible for these decisions must undoubtedly be held accountable. Responsibility for these crimes also lies with all the governments that economically and militarily support Israel, providing not only political and diplomatic cover but also the material means for this unprecedented barbarity. The United States, along with the European Union and their other NATO allies, bear equal responsibility for the genocide and ethnic cleansing that has taken place in Gaza and for the fact that Israeli occupation and settlement expansion have been sustained for decades, with the rights of the Palestinian people being brutally violated. The WFTU, as always, stands by the Palestinian people, demanding an end to all economic, military, and political cooperation with the murderous state of Israel, the immediate restoration of the destruction and the creation of conditions for a dignified life for the residents of Gaza, the complete withdrawal of the Israeli occupation forces both from the Gaza Strip and from the West Bank, and the immediate cessation of the illegal and criminal settlement of Palestinian lands. It is clear that peace in the Middle East can only be established with Israel’s withdrawal from the occupied Arab territories and the full implementation of the relevant UN resolutions for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state within the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital. The WFTU calls on its affiliates and friends to intensify their solidarity activities for Palestine. Long live internationalist solidarity! Long live Palestine!
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WFTU Solidarity Statement with the Strike in Italy
https://www.wftucentral.org/wftu-solidarity-statement-with-the-strike-in-italy/
The World Federation of Trade Unions, the militant voice of more that 105 million workers who live, work and struggle in 134 countries of the 5 continents, expresses its undivided solidarity with the working class of Italy and the General strike which is going to take place on 28-29 November 2025 under the slogan: “Say NO to the Meloni government’s budget law – stand with the Palestinian people and stop the genocide!” The general strike is the conscious and dignified reaction of the popular strata of Italy against the war economy and preparations that reduce resources for health, education, services, and increase the precariousness of work, undermining the interests of the workers, pensioners, students, and unemployed. The international class-oriented trade union movement struggles for peace and an immediate end to all wars and imperialist intervention. The WFTU affiliates, the militant unions all over the globe, fight for a society where the wealth of producers will be allocated to those who produce it with their Labor and toil. We join our voice with the worker on strike and their just demands for wage increase, permanent and stable work, dignified living and working conditions. See the USB announcement: https://www.facebook.com/unionesindacaledibase/posts/pfbid02Zsc4nZTDVaqVpMhKEmnwLHXcxmBSqHwjcmgG5sTHLTqx3uRGi4Tn7mTaAPV1DupHl
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WFTU Statement on the Imperialist Escalation Against Venezuela
https://www.wftucentral.org/wftu-statement-on-the-imperialist-escalation-against-venezuela/
The World Federation of Trade Unions denounces the dangerous escalation of U.S. imperialism and its allies against the sovereign people of Venezuela. The announced military operation “Southern Spear” and the deployment of U.S. forces in the Caribbean repeat the familiar pattern of pretexts and provocations. The so-called “fight against drug trafficking” is nothing more than a cover for the real aims: the control of Venezuela’s immense mineral and energy wealth, the imposition of imperialist domination in the region, and the intimidation of its peoples. The U.S. monopolies seek to impose their interests through threats, economic wars and blockades, and military force. These plans endanger peace, violate the sovereignty of Venezuela, and threaten the stability of Latin America as a whole. The WFTU proclaims clearly: Hands off Venezuela! Every people has the non-negotiable right to determine freely and democratically its own future, without foreign interference, pressure, or intervention. We express our steadfast class solidarity with the working class and the people of Venezuela, who once again face imperialist aggression with dignity and courage. The WFTU calls on all trade unions and progressive forces to strengthen the struggle against the war plans of imperialism, to expose the real motives behind its interventions, and to raise the voice of internationalist solidarity with the peoples of Latin America. Solidarity with Venezuela — No to imperialist interventions!
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The WFTU participated in the VII Congress Intersindical Valenciana
https://www.wftucentral.org/the-wftu-participated-in-the-vii-congress-intersindical-valenciana/
The WFTU represented by comrade Pierpaolo Leonardi from USB Italy, head of the EUROF in the VII Congress Intersindical Valenciana. https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=pfbid027MpQx2fnxaZS4RDNHL2dxykdnMRiCSCRvfWdqWF8a8M8X4frk9kf9Tw2154J1Cxzl&id=100057622961020&__cft__[0]=AZXEuO5q08f5LJrs0juo5mj6G_84QYG2AToCNF_k010rO3-XXJzWZ5nMkHV5x0AwVxzBdAW5wSsx1rH6FNLm1yGXOGb8oDcLko61RS39WarKTRLBDjVQ3sGak2D-wi0aGsMRBnpi9LO7eo_H8Ogf69fbbLowyhTlgiSMt7vhhX0z9HSF3OzRtl4kF04dSRiCrZo&__tn__=%2CO%2CP-R
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MAGA is preparing for war
https://www.peoplesworld.org/article/maga-is-preparing-for-war/
The following op-ed is based on an address delivered on Saturday, Nov. 8, 2025, by Joe Sims at the conclusion of the CPUSA’s Peace Conference 2.0: “Driven by Justice—United for Peace.” It has been edited for style, clarity, and length. Previous People’s World coverage of the conference can be read here. We’re in an electoral […]
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The new kill zone: Gaza’s borders after the ‘ceasefire’
https://www.peoplesworld.org/article/the-new-kill-zone-gazas-borders-after-the-ceasefire/
The so-called Gaza ceasefire was not a genuine cessation of hostility, but a strategic, cynical shift in the Israeli genocide and ongoing campaign of destruction. Starting on October 10, the first day of the announced ceasefire, Israel transitioned tactics: moving from indiscriminate aerial bombardment to the calculated, engineered demolishing of homes and vital infrastructure. Satellite […]
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International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women
https://www.wftucentral.org/international-day-for-the-elimination-of-violence-against-women/
“80 years of international trade union struggle – Stop violence, exploitation and war. Safety, dignity and equality for all women” On 25 November, International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, the World Federation of Trade Unions (WFTU) renews its struggle for a world free from violence, exploitation and war, recalling that in 2025 we will also celebrate 80 years of international trade union commitment alongside workers around the world. Violence against women is never an individual or private matter. It is rooted in the power structures of capitalism, economic and social inequalities, patriarchal culture and the militarisation of territories. Wars, occupations and armed conflicts disproportionately affect women, increasing poverty, instability and insecurity. Similarly, economic exploitation, low wages, precarious work, lack of rights and the reduction of public services fuel violence and discrimination. The WFTU fights for a world where women’s dignity and safety are top priorities, where work is safe and fairly paid, where every woman can live free from violence and fear. On this day, we remember in particular the situation in Palestine, where women today are suffering genocide and have been suffering the consequences of war, occupation and Israel’s policies of oppression for 77 years. Trade union organisations affiliated to the WFTU have always maintained that the fight against violence against women is closely linked to the fight for workers’ rights, decent wages, safe housing, public education, healthcare and accessible social services. No woman can be free without access to economic resources, social protection and freedom from war and systemic violence. On this day, the WFTU reaffirms: The need for effective legislation against all forms of violence, discrimination and exploitation; The right of women to safe work, decent wages and equal opportunities; The fight against imperialist wars and all forms of occupation; The right to education, contraception, social spaces and free public services, which are fundamental tools for women’s autonomy and protection; The need to combat patriarchy and the culture of violence, including through trade union campaigns, information campaigns and concrete actions on the ground. The WFTU and its affiliates call on all trade unions and workers to mobilise, build international solidarity and support concrete actions against violence against women, predatory capitalism, exploitation and wars. Only collective struggle and the participation of workers can create a world where safety, dignity, equality and freedom are a reality for all women. 80 years of international trade union struggle. Stop violence against women. Stop exploitation and war. Freedom and justice for Palestine. Safety, dignity and equality for all women!
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PAME: New issue of Panergatiki
https://www.wftucentral.org/pame-new-issue-of-panergatiki/
The new issue of Panergatiki has been released, featuring a special tribute to the PAME delegation’s visit to Palestine: panergatiki_palestine_eng
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U.S. occupation’s legacy keeps Iraq divided: Interview with Communist Party leader Raid Fahmi
https://www.peoplesworld.org/article/u-s-occupations-legacy-keeps-iraq-divided-interview-with-communist-party-leader-raid-fahmi/
Iraqis went to the polls Nov. 11 to elect a new parliament. The elections paved the way for the appointment of a new president—a largely ceremonial post reserved for a Kurd—and a prime minister, traditionally Shia. According to the convention in place in post-invasion Iraq, a Sunni will hold the position of Speaker of Parliament. […]
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50 years after Franco’s death, fascism’s blood-soaked legacy still haunts Spain
https://www.peoplesworld.org/article/50-years-after-francos-death-fascisms-blood-soaked-legacy-still-haunts-spain/
“Spaniards, Franco has died,” came the announcement 50 years ago on Spanish TV. If there was any truth to the widely held story that Barcelona immediately ran out of cava, the corks would have been popping behind closed doors. Most Spaniards held their breath on Nov. 20, 1975, fearful of what might happen next. After nearly four […]
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Zuckerberg is building a data center in Louisiana the size of Manhattan — while Meta runs ads about how small towns love their data centers, we found furious locals who plan to leave town completely.
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Mexican president bars any U.S. invasion
https://www.peoplesworld.org/article/mexican-president-bars-any-u-s-invasion/
MEXICO CITY (AP)—Mexico’s president on Tuesday ruled out allowing U.S. strikes against cartels on Mexican soil, a day after U.S. President Donald Trump said he was willing to do whatever it takes to stop drugs entering the U.S. “It’s not going to happen,” President Claudia Sheinbaum said. “He [Trump] has suggested it on various occasions or he has said, […]
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UN Security Council endorses ‘Trump peace plan’ for Gaza
https://www.peoplesworld.org/article/un-security-council-endorses-trump-peace-plan-for-gaza/
The United Nations Security Council has signed off on the so-called “Trump peace plan” for Gaza. In a vote on Nov. 17, the body approved a draft resolution submitted by the U.S. endorsing a large-scale reconstruction and governance framework for the Gaza Strip, including an international “Stabilization Force” and a provisional governing body. Thirteen of the […]
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WFTU Working Women Committee Virtual Event
https://www.wftucentral.org/wftu-working-women-committee-virtual-event/
The WFTU Working Women Committee organizes the Virtual Event on the occasion of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, under the title: “80 years of the WFTU; 80 years of working women’s struggle for rights and a world without exploitation” Zoom link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/86892972026?pwd=84PBcc3jrV5qHNUT2iHB4QEfxlZ69t.1
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U.S. intervention in upcoming Honduras election a major concern
https://www.peoplesworld.org/article/u-s-intervention-in-upcoming-honduras-election-a-major-concern/
Elections taking place Nov. 30 in Honduras will decide the country’s next president and make-up of the national assembly. Current President Xiomara Castro of the democratic socialist Party of Liberty and Refoundation (Libre), in office since 2022, is limited to one term. Libre Party presidential candidate Rixi Moncada was finance minister and then defense minister […]
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Communist Jeannette Jara first in Chile’s presidential election, heads to run-off
https://www.peoplesworld.org/article/communist-jeannette-jara-comes-first-in-chiles-presidential-election-heads-to-run-off/
Chilean voters cast their ballots for president on Sunday, putting Communist Jeannette Jara in first place with 27% in a multi-candidate race. She beat out the country’s most infamous fascist son, José Antonio Kast, who captured 24%. The two will now advance to a Dec. 14 run-off, setting up a true class struggle for the […]
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