France: Activists to continue strikes and protests against pension reform through mid-April; nationwide action planned for April 13

Event

Widespread civil unrest related to pension reforms will likely continue nationwide and prompt disruptions through mid-April. Labor unions and activist groups are maintaining a campaign of strike and protest action denouncing pension reform. The multi-sector union federation has announced a twelfth day of nationwide strikes on April 13.

Strikes
Significant disruptions to public transport will likely occur during the multi-sector strike on April 13, followed by likely intermittent disruptions in the following days. As of April 12, the national rail operator SNCF predicts less impact than on previous national strike days, with around 80 percent of TGV and Ouigo, and 60 percent of TER services operating. In the Paris region, rail services will be disrupted, but with between 60 and 80 percent of services operating. The international Eurostar and Thalys services will be near-normal. The Parisien Public Transport Operator (RATP) services predict near-normal service on the RER network and on the Metro with the exception of certain lines. The bus and tram networks will be unaffected.

As of April 12, it is not known what proportion of air traffic controllers (ATC) will participate in the April 13 strike. Previous actions have led to flight disruptions at French airports and for flights operating in French airspace. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGAC) has asked airlines to reduce flight schedules by 20 percent between 06:00 and 23:59 at Bordeaux-Merignac Airport (BOD), Nantes-Antlantique Airport (NTE), and Toulouse-Blagnac Airport (TLS). Unlike in the recent nationwide strikes, there will be no reduction in flights at Paris-Orly Airport (ORY). Disruptions remain possible at affected airports following strike days as airlines reposition aircraft and crew and airports work through passenger backlogs.

Unions representing public sector workers will likely call on members to participate in the April 13 action. Education, healthcare, and local government facilities may close or offer reduced services, though emergency medical treatment will likely remain available. Staff at private companies may also participate in the strikes, resulting in business disruptions and closures.

As of April 12, unionized workers have ended their intermittent industrial action at oil refineries across France, which started on March 7. Fuel supplies were not significantly impacted, and any lingering shortages will reduce in the coming days. Some waste collectors in Paris will resume striking from April 13; however, the impact will likely be less than in March.

Demonstrations
Demonstrations are widespread and occur daily in most major cities, particularly Paris. Protesters can block major roads, typically ring roads close to major cities, and obstruct access to transport hubs such as bus and train depots. Clashes have broken out, and police have resorted to using teargas in several locations in recent days. Further clashes are likely at all major future gatherings.

Based on previous events, tens of thousands are likely to attend events across France on April 13. The largest demonstration will likely be in Paris. Attendees will gather at Place de l’Opera at 14:00 and march to Place de la Bastille. Other protests will likely take place nationwide and are also likely to draw significant attendance. Events planned in France’s major cities include:

Bordeaux: Place de la Bourse, 12:00
Lyon: Place du Marechal-Lyautey, 13:30
Nantes: Miroir d'eau, 10:30
Rennes: Place de Bretagne, 11:00
Strasbourg: Avenue de la Liberte, 14:00
Toulouse: Saint-Cyprien, 10:00.

The unrest shows no signs of abating, and the government has not indicated a willingness to abandon its pension reform initiative; hence, planned and spontaneous protests will probably continue through at least mid-April. Authorities will maintain an increased security presence near any demonstrations that materialize and near government buildings. Large crowds and associated security measures, including road closures and movement restrictions, will result in localized transport disruptions. Clashes between activists and security services are possible; riot police may use tear gas or similar measures to disperse unruly crowds.

Context

Disruptive demonstrations broke out nationwide in reaction to the government invoking Article 49.3 of the French Constitution to pass the pension reform without requiring a vote in the National Assembly. The reform raises the retirement age from 62 to 64. The proposed amendment has prompted widespread civil unrest through early 2023. President Emanuel Macron's government has narrowly survived two no-confidence votes in the National Assembly in recent days, clearing the way for the bill to become law. Unions have planned the next nationwide strike on April 13 as it is the day before the new law will be reviewed by France's Constitutional Council. Further protests are almost certain.

Advice

Confirm all transport reservations as well as public- and private-sector appointments through mid-April, including at public health centers and other government facilities. Do not check out of accommodations until onward travel is confirmed. Avoid all demonstrations as a routine security precaution and to mitigate personal exposure to any associated disruptions. Allow extra time for travel in major cities. Heed instructions from local authorities and leave the area at the first sign of a confrontation.