On the 17th of September 2016, a coalition of 33 activist networks organized nationwide demonstrations across Germany under the banner “STOP CETA & TTIP” that were aimed against so-called transnational free trade agreements such as TTIP (Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership) and CETA (Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement).
According to the organizers of the demonstration, these so-called trade and investments partnerships pose not only a threat to the economy and environment, but are attacks against the foundations of democracy in Europe, Canada and the United States. On the website of the organizers it states: “Let us STOP CETA & TTIP! We support fair trade and not free trade.”
Although the majority of Germans is critical towards these agreements, establishment politicians favour them on the grounds that they will boost exports, economic growth and trade. The Social Democrats of Germany (SPD) led by Sigmar Gabriel are also in favour of these agreement, in particular CETA, and hence there was a strong focus of the organizers to influence the policy stance of the SPD.
Organizers say that an estimated 300,000 to 350,000 people took part to in these demonstrations.
acTVism Munich was present in both Berlin and Munich to provide on-ground coverage.
Press freedom is under attack
As Trump cracks down on political speech, independent media is increasingly necessary.
Truthout produces reporting you won’t see in the mainstream: journalism from the frontlines of global conflict, interviews with grassroots movement leaders, high-quality legal analysis and more.
Our work is possible thanks to reader support. Help Truthout catalyze change and social justice — make a tax-deductible monthly or one-time donation today.