France: Labor unions continue campaign of strikes across France through early February; additional sectors confirm participation in strikes Feb. 7 /update 4

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. 1, 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. The following sectors have confirmed their participation in the action on Feb. 7:

Public Transport

Unions representing French National Railway Company (SNCF) employees have called on their members to take part in the action Feb. 7; two unions have called for their members to continue the strike through Feb. 8. Unions representing employees of the Parisien Public Transport Operator (RATP) have also called on their members to strike Feb. 7, and similar actions by local public transport operators are likely in additional cities. The action is likely to result in significant disruptions to public transport services nationwide Feb. 7; limited rail disruption is likely to continue Feb. 8. Operators typically announce anticipated disruptions 1-2 days in advance.

The USACcgt union, representing air traffic controllers (ATC), has called on its members to participate in the strike Feb. 7; other major ATC unions are not participating in the action as of Feb. 2. The European Organisation for Safety of Air Navigation (Eurocontrol) has stated that minimum services will be implemented in some ATC centers from 18:00 Feb. 6-07:00 Feb. 8; some disruptions to flight operations in France are likely as a result.

Public Sector

Unions representing teachers have confirmed their participation in the strike Feb. 7, likely prompting widespread closure of educational facilities. Healthcare and other government agency workers could also participate in the action resulting in a reduced availability of services; emergency medical treatment will likely remain available. Staff at private companies may also participate in the strikes resulting in business disruptions and closures.

Demonstrations

Protest marches will accompany the industrial action: on Jan. 31, between 1.2 and 2.5 million (according to different estimates) workers took part in over 250 different rallies. Further events on Feb. 7 will likely draw large crowds. The meeting points and march routes in major urban centers have yet to be confirmed.

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 actions against the pension reform are likely 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.