Thousands of Amazon workers are set to strike or protest across more than 20 countries during one of retail’s busiest weekends, as the Make Amazon Pay campaign pushes for improved working conditions, fair wages, and stronger environmental commitments.
According to The Irish Examiner, the coordinated action, scheduled between Black Friday and Cyber Monday (November 29-December 2), will see demonstrations in major cities throughout the US, Germany, UK, Turkey, Canada, India, Japan, and Brazil. In Germany alone, thousands of Ver.di union members plan to strike at seven warehouse locations.
The campaign, led by UNI Global Union and Progressive International, brings together more than 80 organizations including trade unions, anti-poverty groups, and garment worker rights advocates. They are calling on Amazon, founded by Jeff Bezos – the world’s second-richest person – to address three key areas: fair worker compensation and union rights, proper tax contributions, and environmental sustainability.
Christy Hoffman, UNI Global Union’s general secretary, emphasized that Amazon’s profit-driven approach comes at a significant cost to workers, the environment, and democratic principles.
In response, an Amazon spokesperson defended the company’s practices, stating they remain proud of their competitive pay, comprehensive benefits, and safe work environment, while acknowledging they continue to listen and look for improvements.
This marks the fifth year of Make Amazon Pay protests, with French tax fairness group ATTAC also planning demonstrations across several cities.