France: Multiple labor unions plan strikes and demonstrations nationwide, Oct. 13

Event

Multiple labor unions plan strikes and demonstrations nationwide on Oct. 13. The CGT (Confederation of General Workers) and other labor unions are demanding improved salaries, gender equality, and other social measures. The industrial action is likely to impact travel, education, public administration, and healthcare services. The disruptions are not confirmed as of Oct. 9. The national rail operator SNCF and the Paris region public transport operator will likely publish the impact of the strike on services Oct. 11-12. Air traffic control (ATC) may also be impacted.

The labor unions will organize rallies and protests in urban centers across the country. The largest of these will likely be in Paris; details have not yet been published. It is likely that attendance will reach into the thousands in Paris and larger cities.

In similar nationwide strikes between January and May, rail services and public transport operations typically reduced by between 30 and 50 percent on strike days, in different regions. ATC disruptions also resulted in reductions of 20 percent in flights from Paris Orly Airport (ORY). Similar disruptions are possible Oct. 13, although are unconfirmed as of Oct. 9. Additional police will likely deploy to ensure security throughout the strike period. Road closures may prompt localized traffic disruptions. The events are likely to pass off peacefully although scuffles with police and vandalism cannot be ruled out.

Advice

Avoid all demonstrations as a routine security precaution and to mitigate personal exposure to any associated disruptions. Allow extra time for travel. Heed instructions from local authorities and leave the area at the first sign of a confrontation.