France is caught in a major showdown as unions organize mass strikes and demonstrations on September 18 to contest plans for budget cuts totaling around €44 billion. Schools, pharmacies, and public transport are disrupted. Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu, recently appointed, confronts both public anger and political gridlock.

Widespread Disruption Expected

Transport workers, teachers, and health staff are walking out, with many schools closed and regional rail and metro services heavily disrupted. In addition, workers at EDF have cut nuclear power production in response to the industrial action.

Backlash Against Macron’s Austerity Plan

Unions and opposition parties are demanding more spending on public services and higher taxes on wealthy individuals, opposing many of Macron’s austerity measures. Earlier efforts by François Bayrou to pass similar cuts collapsed in parliament.

Political Risk and Public Sentiment

Public approval for Macron is at new lows. The new prime minister Lecornu lacks a solid parliamentary majority and must navigate both angry unions and economic pressure from rating agencies. Earlier this week, France’s credit rating was downgraded, increasing borrowing costs and adding urgency to the government’s fiscal challenge.

Security Measures and Protest Mobilisation

Authorities have prepared for large-scale protest action, with plans to deploy roughly 80,000 police and gendarmes. Widespread unrest is anticipated, including blockades and possible clashes, given the scale of the mobilisation and the tensions around public services and living costs.