Nationwide strikes and protests grip France over living costs and budget cuts

France is experiencing a day of nationwide strikes and protests on November 5, 2026, as workers from both the public and private sectors, students, and pensioners demonstrate against the rising cost of living and proposed 2027 budget cuts. Tensions remain high following the failure of negotiations between labor unions and the government on October 21. Trade unions, including the CGT, led by Sophie Binet, have demanded wage increases and a revision of the fiscal plan, which they argue threatens vulnerable populations.

Authorities have deployed approximately 70,000 police officers across the country to maintain order, with intelligence services estimating between 500,000 and 700,000 participants in major cities. Clashes between police and protesters have been reported in Lyon, where security forces utilized tear gas to clear barricades. In Paris, shops were boarded up in anticipation of large-scale rallies starting at the Place de la Republique. The situation marks a significant challenge for President Emmanuel Macron, who recently convened the Council of Defense and National Security to address the ongoing unrest, which is intensifying ahead of upcoming presidential elections.