VIDEO: Mass protests and strikes set to hit France amid public anger over budget cuts

France is preparing for a new wave of nationwide strikes and protests as Prime Minister François Bayrou's government faces escalating pressure over its controversial budget plans and austerity measures.

Unions and grassroots movements are vowing to bring the country to a standstill, deepening a political crisis that could test the stability of Bayrou's administration.

The latest round of industrial action is set to begin on Tuesday, October 1, 2025, with several key sectors announcing participation. Public transport, including trains and Parisian metro services, is expected to be severely disrupted, while air traffic controllers, civil servants, and teachers have also called for strikes.

Energy workers and port workers are also anticipated to join, threatening significant impacts on daily life and economic activity.

Budget Cuts and Public Discontent

The renewed unrest is primarily fueled by public anger over Bayrou's proposed national budget, which includes deep cuts and austerity measures aimed at curbing France's national debt. Key sticking points include:

• Public Service Reductions: Plans to reduce civil service jobs and consolidate public services.
• Pension Reforms: Although not as extensive as previous reforms, there are concerns about adjustments to retirement ages and benefits.
• Elimination of Public Holidays: The highly controversial proposal to cut two public holidays to save costs has particularly incensed unions.

Prime Minister Bayrou has repeatedly defended the budget, arguing that "responsibility over chaos" is necessary to address France's public debt, which stands at 113 percent of its GDP. However, his government narrowly survived a no-confidence vote last month, indicating the fragility of its parliamentary support.

Political Challenges and Echoes of Past Protests

The strikes are supported by a broad coalition, including major trade unions and the far-left France Unbowed (LFI) party, whose leader, Jean-Luc Mélenchon, has called for widespread participation. The protests also draw inspiration from the "Block Everything" (Bloquons tout) movement, a decentralized, social media-driven campaign that recently attempted a similar nationwide shutdown.

The current climate echoes the widespread unrest seen during the "Yellow Vest" movement and the protests against previous pension reforms, both of which severely challenged the authority of the government.

Analysts suggest that the scale and duration of these upcoming strikes could be a critical test for Prime Minister Bayrou's ability to implement his agenda and maintain social order.

The government's ability to negotiate with unions and appease public anger will be crucial in determining the path forward for France.