Widespread Strikes and Protests Sweep Across France Amid Budget Discontent + Video

According to Rokna, hundreds of thousands of citizens took to the streets across France on Wednesday, participating in a nationwide day of strikes organized by major trade unions to protest proposed budget cuts and pressure the new Prime Minister, Sébastien Lecornu, to reconsider policies affecting wages, pensions, and public services. The demonstrations brought significant disruption to public transport, with train, bus, and tram services suspended, hospitals affected by staff walkouts, and the majority of pharmacies closed.

Union leaders, including representatives from CGT and CFDT, called on public sector workers, teachers, healthcare staff, and other professionals to join the protests to highlight concerns over austerity measures and the impact of government policies on social welfare. More than 250 demonstrations were held nationwide, spanning major cities from Paris to Marseille, Lyon, Nantes, and Montpellier. The Interior Ministry estimated between 600,000 and 900,000 participants in the street rallies.

Protesters expressed frustration over growing inequality, declining public services, and government prioritization of corporate tax breaks over social support. Citizens emphasized the need for fair compensation, social protections, and a more equitable distribution of resources. Clashes occurred in some locations, such as Nantes and Lyon, where authorities deployed tear gas and three people were reported injured. The demonstrations mark an early test for the new government while highlighting widespread public dissatisfaction with President Emmanuel Macron’s administration and its austerity agenda.