Paris, France – On Thursday, hundreds of thousands of people across France joined nationwide demonstrations organized by trade unions. The protests targeted the government’s budget policies, demanding action on wages, pensions, and public services.
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What Happened
Trade unions coordinated strikes involving train, bus, and tram drivers, along with hospital staff, school workers, and pharmacists. Students also staged blockades at several high schools in Paris, Amiens, and Le Havre.
In total, more than 250 demonstrations took place in major cities such as Paris, Marseille, Nantes, Lyon, and Montpellier. According to France’s Interior Ministry, between 600,000 and 900,000 people participated nationwide.
By mid-afternoon, police reported 140 arrests in Nantes and Lyon following minor clashes. Authorities deployed tear gas in some areas, and several people were injured.
Who Is Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu?
The protests come at a crucial moment for Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu, who was recently appointed by President Emmanuel Macron as France’s third Prime Minister within a year. Lecornu faces the challenge of drafting a new budget while leading a fragile minority government.
He succeeded François Bayrou, whose proposed €44 billion austerity program failed to gain support in Parliament. Lecornu has pledged to abolish lifelong privileges for officials and cancel a plan to eliminate two public holidays. However, trade unions remain concerned about possible measures such as a welfare spending freeze.
Public Concerns and Voices from the Streets
Protesters stressed the importance of protecting France’s social safety net.
Sylvie, a public sector worker from Créteil, told reporters:
“France is one of the few countries that still has a proper social security system, but it is being erased through budget cuts. We work to serve people, yet we are punished for public debt while businesses benefit from tax breaks.”
Guillaume, a young activist from Rouen, added:
“All social security is under attack. The rich are getting richer, while services for vulnerable children are shrinking. The government must stop prioritizing business handouts over public needs.”
Left-wing politicians, including Jean-Luc Mélenchon, joined the demonstrations. Mélenchon directly criticized President Macron, saying:
“The President is the source of chaos, and these protests are the result of his actions.”
What Happens Next
The nationwide protests and strikes serve as an early test for Lecornu’s leadership. He must present a new budget within weeks and navigate a deeply divided Parliament. Failure to secure enough support could trigger a vote of no confidence and further political instability.
Trade unions have already warned that demonstrations will continue until the government commits to addressing their core demands: fair wages, pension protections, and strong public services.
Conclusion
The protests across France highlight growing frustration over austerity measures, rising inequality, and government spending priorities. For Prime Minister Lecornu, they represent both a political challenge and a warning that public resistance will remain strong unless meaningful changes are made. The coming weeks will determine whether the government can strike a balance between fiscal discipline and protecting France’s social model.