ETUC Statement: Together with French trade unions to defend the 1st of May
Adopted at the Executive Committee meeting of 10-11 March 2026
The European Trade Union Confederation (ETUC) notes with concern that a proposal presented on 10 April 2026 and currently before the French National Assembly seeks to extend to activities in additional sectors the possibility to work on the 1st of May. French trade unions have warned that this initiative would weaken the long-standing principle of the 1st of May as mandatory paid public holiday in France and as a day traditionally dedicated to workers’ rights and collective action.
The ETUC expresses its full solidarity and support for French trade unions in defending the 1st of May as a fundamental day for workers in France and across Europe, and in opposing this harmful proposal.
May Day is an international symbol of workers’ struggles, solidarity and the collective achievements that have shaped labour and social rights for more than a century. Any attempt to weaken the 1st of May risks undermining this shared social heritage.
ETUC stands with the French trade unions in calling on Members of the National Assembly to reject proposals that would weaken workers’ rights and conditions, and would undermine the unique status of 1st of May as a mandatory day of rest.