On the 50th anniversary of International Workers' Day, thousands in Lisbon demanded higher wages and better pensions, reflecting the historical significance of the day.

Protests were global, with workers from Cape Verde to Japan calling for improved wages and working conditions, and a restoration of purchasing power.

In Istanbul, May Day protests were met with police force, including tear gas and rubber bullets, as demonstrators defied a ban on celebrations in Taksim Square.

Athens saw thousands marching and striking for labor rights and a return to collective negotiations, amidst a backdrop of economic recovery from crisis.

International solidarity was shown, particularly for the Palestinian cause, with many protests including support for Palestinian students and Gaza awareness.

The upcoming Summer Olympics in Paris faced opposition, with protestors setting fire to makeshift Olympic rings as a symbol of discontent.

Workers in South Korea and Japan voiced their opposition to government labor policies and demanded wage increases in response to rising prices.

In the Philippines, labor protests were met with police resistance, underscoring the tension between workers' demands and government response.

The May Day protests represent a continued global advocacy for labor rights and economic justice, despite expectations that most protesters would resume work the next day.