France: Calls for nationwide general strike February 5

Event

The General Confederation of Labor (CGT) called for public and private sector workers to hold a 24-hour strike throughout the country on Tuesday, February 5, reportedly in support of the "yellow vest" movement.

Employees from the SNCF (national rail operator) and other public transportation companies (bus, trams, metro) are likely to join the movement. Associated delays and cancellations are expected on transportation services nationwide if the strike goes ahead as planned, notably in the capital Paris. Health and education services are also likely to be disrupted. Associated protests are possible, as well as disruptions in commercial activity.

As a reminder, significant disruptions are ongoing throughout the country due to protests and blockades organized by the "yellow vest" movement.

Context

Related CGT protests were held nationwide, notably on December 14 and 18, to protest falling purchasing power and perceived inadequate pensions and social protections.

The "yellow vest" movement began on November 17, 2018, to protest rising fuel prices and a planned fuel tax, and has since grown to encompass a number of popular grievances against the French government; some protests have turned violent and acts of vandalism and looting have been reported, although the scale of protests has diminished since their height in December. The government had previously announced a tax increase on fuel prices, including gasoline and diesel, beginning on January 1, 2019, to promote environmentally friendly practices. Although the government announced the withdrawal of the carbon tax project from the 2019 budget on December 5, protests have continued.

Advice

Individuals in France are advised to confirm rail timetables and reservations, allow for additional time to reach their destinations, and to avoid all protests as a precaution.