Nationwide Protests Erupt in France Over New Government and Budget Plans

Nationwide Protests Erupt in France Over New Government and Budget Plans
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Widespread protests and unrest swept across France on Wednesday, as demonstrators expressed growing frustration with the country’s political leadership and economic policies, CNN reported. The protests coincided with the appointment of new Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu, a close ally of President Emmanuel Macron, following the dismissal of François Bayrou after a failed confidence vote tied to a controversial budget plan.

The French Interior Ministry confirmed 473 arrests and the deployment of 80,000 police officers nationwide, including 6,000 in Paris. Protests disrupted traffic and public services in cities such as Bordeaux, Rennes, Nantes, and Caen. In Paris, demonstrators blocked roads near major transport hubs like Gare du Nord and gathered in central areas like Châtelet.

The movement, initially launched by right-wing activists online in May, has since expanded to include far-left and left-wing groups. Protesters criticized the 2026 budget proposal, claiming it disproportionately affects low-income citizens while sparing wealthier individuals and corporations.

Education officials reported disruptions at 100 schools, with 27 fully blockaded. Incidents of property damage were recorded, including a bus fire in Rennes and a restaurant blaze in central Paris. A larger, union-backed national strike is scheduled for September 18, signaling continued discontent.