TL/DR –
French workers from various sectors, including teachers, transport, and public services, have gone on strike, protesting against budget cuts and calling on the new Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu to act on wages, pensions, and public services. The demonstration, which is expected to be the largest since 2023, involves around 800,000 people joining marches across the country and has disrupted schools, transport, and other public services. The protest comes amid a political crisis in France, as Lecornu, the third prime minister appointed in a year who started with low popularity ratings, is struggling to convince opposition parties that he can bring about changes.
France Strikes: Public Sector Workers Demand Wages and Pensions Review
Teachers, transport workers, hospital staff, pharmacists, and public sector workers initiated strike action across France calling for Sébastien Lecornu, the newly appointed Prime Minister, to revise budget cuts and address issues concerning wages, pensions, and public services.
Estimated 800,000 people joined marches on Thursday, causing major disruptions to schools and transport services across France. 250 marches were organized nationwide, spearheaded by trade unions representing workers.
With the largest turnout since 2023, the strike action demonstrates widespread anger towards the government’s fiscal policies. Perrine Mohr, a representative of the CFDT trade union, called for a pro-workers and pro-citizens government.
Political Crisis Amid Budget Disagreements
Following the recent political instability, Lecornu is the third Prime Minister within a year. The previous two leaders were dismissed due to disagreements over budget allocations.
As he begins his term amid a low popularity rating and a divided parliament, Lecornu must devise a budget that will not be immediately rejected by opposing parties. Amid repeated budget deadlock, he must also attempt to form a government.
Lecornu Faces Opposition and Pressure
Critics argue that Lecornu, previously a defense minister, brings nothing new to the table despite promises of a major break from past politics. He must also negotiate with the Socialist party to avoid a no-confidence vote.
The Socialists urged for “an end to harsh budget cuts”, seeking fairer contributions from the wealthy and more supportive policies for the French citizens. However, meeting with Lecornu resulted in little clarity about his plans.
Future Uncertainty and Economic Pressure
France is currently struggling with a near double of the EU’s 3% budget deficit limit and a debt pile equivalent to 114% of GDP. Amid the political turmoil, credit rating agency Fitch downgraded France’s credit rating last week. Lecornu’s future as Prime Minister hangs in the balance as he navigates these challenges.
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