France: Unions announce more nationwide demonstrations, including aviation strike January 9, 11 /update 9

Event

Several unions are planning nationwide demonstrations on Thursday, January 9, and Saturday, January 11, to denounce the government's proposed universal pension reform. On Thursday in Paris, union members plan to gather in multiple locations including from 12:30 (local time) at Place de la République and Austerlitz. A civil aviation union has also called for a strike on Thursday. Nationwide flight disruptions are possible in the hours preceding, during, and proceeding the strike. As of Tuesday, January 7, organizers have not immediately announced details regarding protests on Saturday.

A heightened security presence, transportation and business disruptions are to be expected near all protest sites and during the work stoppage.

Context

Thousands have protested across France in December 2019 to voice their opposition to the planned pension reform scheme. Subsequent ongoing nationwide strikes have caused significant disruptions to all forms of transportation. Strikes may continue for an indefinite period if the government does not abandon its proposed pension reform plan.

Advice

Individuals in France, particularly Paris, are advised to avoid all demonstrations as a precaution, monitor developments to the situation, anticipate transportation disruptions, and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.