France: Labor unions continue campaign of strikes through early February; nationwide disruptions likely Feb. 7 /update 5

Event

A coalition of major labor unions, opposition political parties, and activist groups are continuing a campaign of strikes and associated protests across France as of Feb. 6, with nationwide general strikes and protests planned Feb. 7 and 11. The purpose of the movement is to denounce recently proposed pension reforms that would raise the retirement age. Further related work stoppages and demonstrations could occur with little-to-no notice, and different sectors plan further action through February.

Public Transport
Unions representing French National Railway Company (SNCF) and the Parisien Public Transport Operator (RATP) employees have also called on their members to strike Feb. 7, and similar actions by local public transport operators are likely in cities nationwide. As of Feb. 6, rail operating companies predict:

• National TGV: An average of one train out of two will run.

• Regional TER: An average of three out of 10 trains will run.

• Paris region RER: Services will be severely disrupted; between one train out of two and one train out of six will run.

• The Paris Metro system will also be impacted.

The USAC CGT union, representing air traffic controllers (ATC), has called on its members to participate in the strike Feb. 7. As of Feb. 6, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGAC) requested Orly Airport (ORY) to cancel 20 percent of flights as a pre-emptive measure.

Public Sector
Unions representing teachers have confirmed their participation in the strike Feb. 7, likely prompting widespread closure of educational facilities. Post Office workers in the south of France are also likely to strike.

Demonstrations
A protest rally in Paris is planned on Feb. 7. Attendees will gather at Place de l’Opera, and depart at 14:00 to march to Place de la Bastille. It is likely that tens of thousands of attendees will take part. Further protest rallies and marches will occur nationwide, likely in central squares and outside government buildings. On the previous national strike day, Jan. 31, workers took part in over 250 different rallies across France: protesters clashed with police in Nantes and Rennes.

Additional police will likely deploy to monitor and facilitate all demonstrations. Localized business and transport disruptions are likely. Most actions will probably remain largely peaceful, though isolated clashes between activists and police cannot be ruled out. Further action against the pension reform will likely occur in the coming weeks unless the government abandons the proposed legislation.

Advice

Avoid all demonstrations as a routine security precaution and to mitigate associated disruptions. Allow extra time for travel in major cities. Confirm availability of public transport, as well as flight and rail travel arrangements for dates on which major strikes are planned. Heed the instructions of local authorities; leave the area at the first sign of a confrontation.