Strikes and demonstrations were held in many parts of France on the 18th. According to statistics from French government departments, more than 500,000 people participated in the strikes nationwide, including about 55,000 in Paris, the capital. This is another large-scale protest in France in recent times against the government's austerity plan.
According to Xinhua News Agency, workers in transportation, education, electricity, healthcare, and other sectors responded to the call of labor unions by going on strike to demand a 'fairer' fiscal plan. Street demonstrations in Paris, Lyon, Rennes, and other cities were also accompanied by violence and acts of vandalism. According to the French Interior Ministry, over 300 people were arrested nationwide.
French Prime Minister Le Cornu posted on social media that evening saying he would continue to consult with all sectors of society based on the demands of unions and protesters. He also condemned the violent acts that occurred during the demonstrations.
In July, then Prime Minister Bayrou proposed a 2026 budget plan centered on fiscal austerity, with measures including converting two public holidays into working days and reducing health insurance expenditure to alleviate public debt pressure. This plan was opposed by the National Assembly and the public. On September 8, Bayrou resigned after losing a confidence vote in the National Assembly over the fiscal policy. The next day, then Defense Minister Le Cornu was appointed as the new Prime Minister.
On September 10, some citizens dissatisfied with austerity policies initiated a large-scale 'Block France' demonstration without union leadership. According to government statistics, about 175,000 people participated across the country.