Paris Under Pressure: Nationwide Strikes and Social Unrest Grip the French Capital

Rising Tensions in the French Capital

Paris is preparing for a ‘black day’ on September 10, 2025, with a nationwide protest movement set to paralyze the city’s transport system, including blockades on the Paris ring road, railway stations, and main freeways.

The widespread mobilization aims to challenge the government’s dramatic austerity measures, including the announced 43.8 billion euros in savings and the controversial abolition of two public holidays.

Multi-Sector Impact

The protests will unfold in two key phases: a general blockade on September 10 and a massive inter-union strike on September 18, affecting transport, airports, public services, pharmacies, and hospitals.

The airport strikes will particularly impact Paris’s main aviation hubs, Roissy-Charles-de-Gaulle and Paris-Orly. Air transport unions are joining the protest against the government’s budget-saving plans, which include cuts to public services.

Political Context

The social unrest comes amid political upheaval, with President Emmanuel Macron recently appointing defence chief Sébastien Lecornu as the new Prime Minister following François Bayrou’s parliamentary ousting. Lecornu’s primary challenge will be forging consensus on a new budget before forming a government.

Security Measures and Public Response

In response to threats of punch operations, blockades, and potential sabotage at train stations, airports, and the Paris ring road, authorities have mobilized 80,000 police officers and gendarmes to maintain order.

Looking Ahead

The September 10 strike, organized via social networks by the “Bloquons tout” collective, is expected to match the scale of previous Gilets Jaunes mobilizations. Residents and visitors are advised to anticipate major delays, plan alternative solutions, and stay informed through official communication channels of transport services.