Six people from Trident Ploughshares have joined thousands of local people in (Sierra del Retín) in a demonstration against the increasing militarisation of this beautiful part of Southern Spain. NATO is spoiling this lovely fishing and tourist area with its increasing military exercises. The demonstration today was called by people of the town of Barbate during the massive NATO exercises taking place with major UK involvement.
Angie Zelter, one of the UK peace activists joining the demonstrations, said, ‘NATO is exercising for more illegal and destructive military interventions in Africa which will continue the inhumane practice of securing resources for themselves under the false pretence of humanitarianism. Local people have told us that 6 people have already died in the area (including children) due to exploding ordinance left carelessly in the ground.’
Many of the rich fishing grounds and access to the beaches are closed during exercises and much of the land that could be developed for the use of locals is out of bounds permanently. There is 60% unemployment in the area and local people are protesting. They say the land is theirs, they want it back.
Solidarity between the ordinary people of Europe suffering the consequences of militarism is essential as European Governments collude in fighting over scarce resources and adding to climate change.
For more information contact Angie Zelter on 00-34—663448263.
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