Unions oppose €44 billion savings plan causing service cuts and pension reforms, demand more investment, higher taxes on wealthy, and end to austerity measures
Paris
France witnessed a massive wave of strikes and protests on Thursday as unions, students, and workers launched a nationwide “day of anger” against President Emmanuel Macron’s planned budget cuts. The unrest brought disruption to schools, trains, pharmacies, hospitals, and public transport across the country.
Interior Ministry officials said between 600,000 and 900,000 demonstrators were expected to take part, with 80,000 police and gendarmes deployed nationwide to prevent violence. Riot squads, drones, armoured vehicles, and water cannons were stationed in key areas, and over 20 people were detained early in the day.
Anger is directed at a draft €44 billion savings plan, blamed for cuts in public services and unpopular pension reforms. Unions are demanding more investment, higher taxes on the wealthy, and reversal of previous austerity measures. “The workers we represent are angry,” unions said in a joint statement.
Industrial action hit nearly one-third of primary school teachers nationwide, with Paris seeing even higher participation. Nine out of ten pharmacies shut down, while metro services were severely reduced, except on three fully automated lines. Regional rail services faced major disruption, though most high-speed TGV trains continued.
Farmers, students, and hospital workers also joined the demonstrations. Around 300 students blocked a Paris secondary school, carrying banners opposing austerity. At the Flamanville nuclear reactor, electricity output was cut by workers in solidarity.
Transport Minister Philippe Tabarot admitted the situation was “disrupted but not at a standstill.” Meanwhile, cultural events were affected, including the postponement of moving the historic Bayeux tapestry to Britain.
Police expressed concerns that agitators might incite riots, urging businesses in central Paris to shut for the day. Despite government reassurances, protests continue to test Macron’s new Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu and his promise of stability.
