France is preparing for major disruption on Thursday as hundreds of thousands of workers take to the streets in protest against planned budget cuts. Teachers, train drivers, hospital staff, pharmacists, and farmers are among those expected to join the nationwide strike.
Unions leading the demonstrations are demanding more investment in public services, heavier taxes on the wealthy, and the reversal of unpopular pension reforms. Officials estimate as many as 800,000 people may participate, with serious disruption expected on Paris metros, regional trains, and even electricity supplies.
Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau announced that 80,000 police officers, riot squads, drones, and armored vehicles would be deployed to maintain order. Authorities fear possible sabotage and clashes with violent groups.
The unrest comes at a delicate time for President Emmanuel Macron and his newly appointed Prime Minister, Sebastien Lecornu, who face mounting political and financial pressure. France’s budget deficit is nearly double the European Union’s limit, and Lecornu must convince parliament to approve the 2026 budget after lawmakers rejected his predecessor’s €44 billion austerity plan.
Unions argue that ordinary workers are being unfairly burdened while public services remain underfunded. “The workers we represent are angry,” union leaders said in a joint statement, warning that protests will continue until the government responds.
One in three primary school teachers is set to walk out, while 98% of pharmacies may close for the day. Farmers and energy workers are also joining the movement. CGT union chief Sophie Binet said, “The budget will be decided in the streets,” signaling more unrest if compromises are not made.
