France: Activists to continue strikes and protests against pension reform through mid-April; nationwide action planned for April 13 /update 15

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
Intermittent disruptions to public transport will likely occur April 7-12, followed by severe disruptions during the multi-sector strike April 13. The national rail operator SNCF has yet to confirm the impact on train timetables as of April 7. However, delays and cancellations are likely to impact SNCF services nationwide. Similar disruptions are likely for Parisien Public Transport Operator (RATP) services in the capital and other regional public transport networks in urban centers nationwide. Strikes could also impact Eurostar services, resulting in delays and cancellations.

As of April 7, it is not known whether the union representing 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. For such strikes, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGAC) has asked airlines to reduce flight schedules by 20-25 percent at several airports, including Paris-Orly Airport (ORY), Toulouse-Blagnac Airport (TLS), Bordeaux-Merignac Airport (BOD), Marseille-Provence Airport (MRS), and Nantes-Antlantique Airport (NTE). Lingering disruptions are likely 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. Educational, 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.

Unionized workers have conducted intermittent industrial action at oil refineries across France since March 7. While fuel supplies are not significantly impacted as of April 7, some shortages are possible in the coming days. Waste collectors in Paris have filed a notice to resume striking from April 13.

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. Other confirmed protests are also likely to draw significant attendance; the times and locations of the rallies are not yet known.

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.