Trade union leaders mark 80 years of anti-fascist resistance in Brussels
On the 80th anniversary of the defeat of fascism in Europe, members of the European Federation of Public Service Unions (EPSU) gathered in Brussels to pay tribute to resistance fighters of the past and warn of renewed threats today.
The commemorative action came as part of a broader reflection by public service unionists on the legacy of anti-fascist struggle and its relevance today. EPSU executive committee members from across Europe gave speeches on the history of fascism and working-class resistance, drawing parallels to present-day challenges.
"Our message is simple: no to fascism, not then, not now"
The delegation visited and cleaned the memorial stone of Richard Lipper, a young Belgian resistance fighter executed by the Nazis in 1944. The brass plaque in Ixelles marks the spot where Lipper lived before his arrest.
“Richard Lipper stood against fascism with courage and conviction,” said EPSU president Françoise Geng. “Today, as trade unionists, we remember that resistance is not just history – it's a responsibility. Our message is simple: no to fascism, not then, not now.”
Lipper began his resistance by distributing underground newspapers and later joined Groupe G, a sabotage and weapons network. He was arrested, tortured and executed at the age of 24 for refusing to betray his comrades.
European solidarity
“The warning signs of fascism are always the same – fear, blame and the erosion of rights,” said EPSU general secretary Jan Willem Goudriaan. “Public service workers know what’s at stake when democracy is under threat. Saying no to fascism means standing up for a Europe built on solidarity, equality and peace.”
Goudriaan also noted that 8 May was a public holiday in Belgium until 1974 and echoed the call of Belgian trade unions to reinstate it as a national day of remembrance.
The ceremony closed with Lea Herzig, the youngest EPSU executive committee member, symbolically cleaning Lipper’s memorial stone.
EPSU represents over 8 million workers in sectors including healthcare, public administration, utilities and emergency services. The federation reaffirmed its commitment to defending democracy, solidarity and peace across Europe.
Members of the European Federation of Public Service Unions © PHOTO EPSU
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