France Erupts in Nationwide Protests Over Austerity Plans
Tens of thousands of demonstrators flooded the streets of France on October 2, 2025, in a powerful show of resistance against proposed government spending cuts. Organized by major trade unions including the CGT and CFDT, protests took place in over 240 cities and towns, with Paris, Dijon, Metz, Poitiers, and Montpellier among the key hotspots. The unrest comes amid political uncertainty, as newly appointed Prime Minister SĂ©bastien Lecornu works to form a cabinet and navigate contentious budget negotiations. Protesters are demanding increased investment in public services, a reversal of pension reforms, and higher taxes on the wealthy. The proposed 2026 budget, which includes a €44 billion reduction in public spending, has sparked widespread concern over its impact on low- and middle-income households. While the CGT union estimated turnout at nearly 600,000, the Interior Ministry reported a lower figure of 195,000, including 24,000 in Paris. Students blocked school entrances, a...
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