Massive Strikes Erupt in France Over Budget Cuts

Fri Oct 10 2025 22:29:57 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

Over 800,000 workers across France have joined protests against government budget cuts, demanding an end to austerity measures and better investment in public services.

The streets of France have seen unprecedented protests as trade unions mobilize hundreds of thousands of workers against proposed austerity measures. Reports indicate clashes with police, significant disruptions to public transport, and strong calls from union leaders for increased public spending and tax reforms targeting the wealthy. The protests follow the controversial appointment of new Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu, who faces pressure from both the public and political opponents regarding the future of the budget.

In a day marked by widespread unrest, hundreds of thousands of workers took to the streets of France on Thursday, protesting against the government's planned budget cuts. Initially organized by trade unions, the strikes saw estimates ranging from one million to 500,000 participants, resulting in significant mobilization of police forces, with about 80,000 officers deployed nationwide.

Reports of clashes emerged from cities such as Lyon, Nantes, and Paris, where confrontations occurred between law enforcement and demonstrators. Police utilized tear gas to control crowds after protests escalated, resulting in considerable disruption across the capital.

This wave of protests comes shortly after President Emmanuel Macron's government, now led by newly appointed Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu, faced heavy backlash for budget proposals aimed at reducing France's high public debt through €44 billion in cuts.

Public transport suffered greatly under the protest's weight, with several metro lines closed and roads blocked in major cities. Students joined in solidarity, obstructing access to schools and universities while calling for change alongside labor unions.

Pharmacists participated heavily in the strike, with an estimated 98% closure rate among pharmacies. The interior ministry indicated more than 300 arrests were made during the protests.

In response to the chaos, union leaders urged for a more equitable fiscal policy, proposing higher taxes on wealth and increased investment in public services. Cyrielle, a 36-year-old IT worker at the protests, articulated the need for a shift towards more progressive policies, emphasizing the economic strain many are under as a result of austerity measures.

Sophie Binet of the General Confederation of Labour (CGT) highlighted the importance of solidarity in fighting against policies that favor the wealthy over the working class. Following the event, officials warned of a strong police presence to manage any future disturbances.

The new Prime Minister reflects on the precarious balance needed to navigate the complex political environment, as opposition parties continue to contest the austerity measures mandated by his predecessor. The message from the streets is clear: the French populace demands more thoughtful governance that prioritizes social welfare over stringent economic cuts.