In the context of a wave of struggle and protests in the run-up to the World Cup, the Sao Paolo metro workers began a powerful strike on 5 June.

In country after country, May’s elections to the European parliament saw governments and traditional parties defeated.

Crimea’s 16 March referendum saw an overwhelming majority vote in favour of joining Russia. According to the claimed official result, 96.77% voted ‘for’ integration and turnout was 83.1%. Tens of thousands celebrated in Simferopol, the capital of Crimea.

Tensions deepen between Western powers and Moscow.

Pro-western, right wing regime consolidates power.

The Congress of South African Trade Unions (Cosatu) is convulsing in its death throes as the once mighty federation’s long drawn out death agony nears its conclusion.

Deep economic crisis, savage austerity and social upheaval have polarised Greek society.

After weeks of violent clashes, powerful oligarchs intervene.

2013 ended and 2014 began with a number of significant struggles of the working class around the world. These workers are reaching conclusions that they will have to take to the streets and fight for a future for themselves and their families. They are aware that in the drive to increase profits the market system will drive down their wages and living standards for them and their families

The butcher of Sabra and Shatila has died. Ariel Sharon, once known as the "father of Israeli settlements", died after eight years in a semi-coma, following a stroke while still prime minister in January 2006.