there was a strike organised by the labour union ver.di today. as far as I know, they were striking against a reform in the banking sector. the “Sparkassen” (german state-owned banks) are supposed to be privatised which is based on a EU directive. Almost all other states already did so, we are lacking behind.
Anyways, I always thought that strikes are existent to claim better working conditions. Therefore I thought the atmosphere is rather politic and even a bit aggressive. Completely wrong!!! 
Ver.di must have done a great job! This strike was a massive party with approx. 6,000 participants!!! Samba rythms, drums, perfect sunny weather!!! Is there any better way to spend taxes??? Definitly not!!!
Thanks to Ver.di who organised the big party!!! Luckily, they didn´t disclose that these reforms are positive, fostering competition, growth and securing jobs. Otherwise the employees would not have joined the big big party…