France: Activists likely to stage protests and strikes nationwide through early May after Constitutional Council approves pension reform plan /update 5

Activists likely to stage further protests and strikes across France through early May after Constitutional Council approves pension reform.

Event

Activists will likely continue to stage protests and strikes across France through early May to denounce the government's pension reforms.

As of May 2, following mass demonstrations nationwide May 1 to mark International Workers' Day, labor unions have not planned further events. However, President Emmanuel Macron will continue a program of regional visits in the coming days. In recent weeks, these presidential visits have been met by noisy protests, and police have used force to disperse or push back crowds. Further protests are likely.

As of May 2, labor unions have not planned a further multi-sector strike. However, further small-scale and short-notice strikes are likely. Cabin crew at Vueling Airlines (VY) plan strike action May 6-8.

Authorities will probably deploy an increased security presence to the sites of additional demonstrations and around government buildings. Protesters may block major roads - especially ring roads close to major cities - and obstruct access to transport hubs, such as bus and train depots. Demonstrators may also engage in further acts of vandalism, including arson. Large crowds and associated security measures may prompt authorities to close roads and enact temporary movement restrictions, resulting in localized traffic disruptions. Clashes between activists and security services cannot be ruled out; riot police may use tear gas or similar measures to disperse unruly crowds.

Context

The government's pension reform raises the retirement age from 62 to 64 and is a landmark policy of President Emmanuel Macron. As of April 26, labor unions and opposition parties have led 13 days of national general strikes since Jan. 19. Hundreds of major demonstrations across the country have accompanied the industrial action.

The demonstrations became increasingly intense and frequently violent after the president invoked Article 49.3 of the French Constitution. This enabled the government to pass the pension reform without requiring a vote in the National Assembly. On April 14, the Constitutional Council's partially approved the pension reform plan, after which the president signed the increased pension age into law.

Advice

Confirm all transport reservations as well as public- and private-sector appointments through early May, 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.