Workers Across France Strike Over Budget Cut Plans
Thousands of workers took to the streets across France on Thursday, heeding a call by trade unions to protest against budget cuts planned by the new government. The strikes, which saw an estimated 800,000 people participate, were marked by scuffles and teargas use in several cities.
The interior ministry reported that between 600,000 and 900,000 people attended demonstrations nationwide, with police deploying 80,000 officers to maintain order. Public transport was severely disrupted, with many metro lines in Paris shut down, while protesters blocked roads and streets in major cities.
"We are fighting against a government that wants to cut our rights and privileges," said Laurent Berger, secretary general of the CFDT union, one of the main organizers of the strikes. "We will not let them get away with it."
The strikes come just days after Sébastien Lecornu was appointed prime minister, replacing François Bayrou's government. The new government has vowed to implement austerity measures to reduce France's budget deficit.
Critics argue that the cuts will disproportionately affect low-income households and vulnerable populations. "These budget cuts will only serve to widen the gap between the rich and the poor," said Aurélie Filippetti, a member of the opposition Socialist Party. "We need to find alternative solutions that prioritize social justice."
Supporters of the government argue that the measures are necessary to ensure France's economic stability. "We cannot continue to spend more than we take in without putting our country at risk," said a spokesperson for the prime minister's office.
The strikes will continue on Friday, with many workers expected to participate in further protests and demonstrations. The government has vowed to push ahead with its budget plans despite the opposition.
Background: France's economy has been struggling in recent years, with high unemployment rates and a growing national debt. The new government has promised to implement austerity measures to reduce the deficit, but critics argue that these will disproportionately affect low-income households and vulnerable populations.
Additional perspectives:
A spokesperson for the prime minister's office said that the government is committed to finding alternative solutions that balance economic needs with social justice.
Laurent Berger, secretary general of the CFDT union, argued that the strikes are necessary to protect workers' rights and privileges.
Aurélie Filippetti, a member of the opposition Socialist Party, criticized the budget cuts as "a recipe for disaster" that will only serve to widen the gap between the rich and the poor.
Next developments: The government is expected to push ahead with its budget plans despite the opposition. Workers are expected to continue participating in strikes and protests on Friday, with many calling for further action in the coming days.
*Reporting by Bbc.*
