Thousands of French civil servants protested nationwide on Thursday, opposing budget cuts and worsening working conditions in public services. The strike followed a dramatic no-confidence vote that collapsed the government after it bypassed parliament to push through a social security budget.
Prime Minister Michel Barnier had proposed cutting billions from the budget, including raising unpaid sick leave for civil servants from one to three days. These measures sparked outrage, with protesters accusing the government of neglecting essential public services.
Nationwide Protests Demand Action
Between 130,000 and 200,000 protesters gathered across France, according to estimates from unions and French authorities. Demonstrators expressed their frustration over declining conditions in hospitals, schools, and care homes.
Anne Souyris, a Green Party senator, joined protests outside the Finance Ministry, highlighting the government’s disconnect from the public and parliament. Souyris called for “rapid, serious, and responsible action” to address the deepening crisis in public services.