Bilbao, Spain, served as the site for a demonstration this Friday, organized by the International Meeting Against War, to protest what organizers describe as a global rise in militarism. The rally coincided with the anniversary of the referendum on remaining in NATO and included a call to action for participation in an international meeting scheduled for June 20th in London. The demonstration highlights growing concerns over escalating global tensions and the prioritization of military spending over social programs.
The coalition behind the International Meeting Against War includes several prominent Spanish political organizations, including Podemos Euskadi, the Spanish Socialist Workers’ Party (PSOE), and the trade union Comisiones Obreras (CCOO). These groups voiced opposition to both rearmament and mandatory military service, advocating instead for increased investment in essential public services such as healthcare and education, as well as the creation of meaningful employment opportunities and higher wages. The organizations’ stance reflects a broader European sentiment regarding the allocation of resources and the potential consequences of increased military spending.
Concerns Over Conflicts in Palestine and Ukraine
Organizers expressed deep concern over the ongoing conflicts in both Palestine and Ukraine, framing them as examples of a global trend towards increased violence and a lack of effective diplomatic solutions. They specifically referenced the situation in Gaza, stating, “We realize the face of war after the genocide in Palestine, followed live by millions of people and in the face of the passivity of the European Union and its partners who allowed the Israeli president to act with impunity.” This statement reflects a strong condemnation of the international response to the conflict and a call for greater accountability. The groups too pointed to the war in Ukraine, alleging it has resulted in 1.5 million casualties – a figure that requires further independent verification, but underscores the devastating human cost of the conflict.
The demonstration also highlighted the economic implications of increased military spending. Protesters lamented that funds which could be used to improve public services – including healthcare, transportation infrastructure, schools, and housing – are instead being diverted to arms manufacturers, whose profits are reportedly soaring. This sentiment taps into a growing frustration with perceived economic inequalities and the prioritization of military interests over social welfare.
Call for International Action and a Peaceful Future
The organizers warned of an “imminent danger” and emphasized the need to defend peace, freedom of expression, and “useful” jobs for both society and the planet. This call to action reflects a broader concern about the potential for escalating global conflicts and the need for proactive measures to prevent further violence. The International Meeting Against War aims to build a global movement for peace and disarmament, advocating for a shift in priorities towards social and environmental sustainability.
Building on the success of a similar meeting held in Paris last year, where “thousands” of citizens, union representatives, political activists, and pacifists gathered, the organizers hope to mobilize an even larger crowd in London on June 20th. The Paris meeting served as a platform for initiating discussions and organizing efforts towards a more peaceful and just world. The upcoming London meeting is intended to strengthen this momentum and expand the coalition of individuals and organizations working towards a common goal.
NATO and European Policy Under Scrutiny
A separate report from Berria, published on March 12, 2023, details a protest in Bilbao against NATO and the European Union. The protest, organized by the anti-imperialist platform, called for the “activation” of the Basque Country as an anti-imperialist force. Demonstrators displayed banners condemning war and misery, arguing that the current “capitalist system” is inherently crisis-prone. They also criticized the perceived waning hegemony of the United States and the actions of NATO and the EU in response.
The Berria report further states that protesters view NATO as a “military arm” of capital, dedicated to suppressing any opposition to its policies. They called for the dismantling of “bourgeois political apparatuses” and the advancement of a “people’s struggle.” The report also highlights concerns about NATO operations within the Basque Country, specifically referencing activities at the Bardenas shooting range and Arakako base in Gasteiz, as well as increased military spending and restrictions on rights, and freedoms.
International Justice Focus: Gaza War Crimes
On March 11, 2026, the International Centre of Justice for Palestinians (ICJP), alongside Basque lawyers from the Global Coalition 195, announced the filing of a criminal complaint with the Spanish Prosecutor’s Office regarding alleged war crimes committed in Gaza. The complaint, based on over 130 testimonies, identifies potential key suspects and details alleged crimes including indiscriminate attacks on civilians, intentional attacks on civilian infrastructure, the use of starvation as a weapon of war, and the obstruction of humanitarian aid. The legal basis for the complaint rests on the principle of complementarity within the framework of the International Criminal Court (ICC) Statute and Spanish law.
The ICJP and their legal partners are requesting that the Spanish Prosecutor’s Office investigate the identified suspects, citing Spain’s international obligations under the Rome Statute of the ICC. This legal action represents a significant effort to hold individuals accountable for alleged atrocities committed during the conflict in Gaza and underscores the growing international focus on potential war crimes and human rights violations.
The convergence of these events – the Bilbao demonstration, the concerns raised in the Berria report, and the legal complaint filed with the Spanish Prosecutor’s Office – highlights a growing international movement advocating for peace, justice, and accountability in the face of escalating global conflicts. The upcoming meeting in London on June 20th is poised to be a crucial moment for this movement, bringing together activists and organizations from around the world to demand an end to war and a more equitable and sustainable future.
The next key date to watch is June 20th, with the International Meeting Against War taking place in London. Further updates on the investigation into alleged war crimes in Gaza filed with the Spanish Prosecutor’s Office are also expected in the coming months. Share your thoughts on these critical issues in the comments below and help spread awareness by sharing this article.