26 Sep 2024 | 12:44 AM UTC
France: Workers to strike nationwide Oct. 1
Workers in education, rail, health, other sectors to strike across France Oct. 1. Service disruptions, protests likely.
Unionized workers from various sectors, including education, health, rail transport, and public services, plan to strike across France on Oct. 1. Organizers have several demands and grievances, including calls to reverse retirement reforms, criticism of the formation of the new government, and requests to improve the quality of public services. Unionized rail workers affiliated with multiple unions plan to strike 19:00 Sept. 30-08:00 Oct. 2.
Strike participants plan to protest at Place Denfert-Rochereau in Paris from 14:00. Additional demonstrations are probable in urban centers nationwide.
Rail transport, health, and public service disruptions are likely. Business disruptions are probable nationwide due to increased absenteeism. Heightened security and localized transport disruptions are likely around protest sites. Low-level confrontations between demonstrators and law enforcement officers are possible.
Reconfirm rail travel and medical and public service appointments scheduled for Oct. 1. Plan accordingly for increased absenteeism on the day of the strike; consider allowing a liberal telecommuting policy, if possible. Avoid all protests as a standard precaution. Strictly heed all instructions from law enforcement officers. Leave the area at the first sign of a security disturbance.
