Massive Union Strike Planned in France Against Austerity Budget Proposals

In a decisive move against the French government's austerity budget proposals for 2025, the trade union Force Ouvrière (FO) has announced a widespread strike set to commence from September 1st through November 30th, 2025. This action, spearheaded by FO's secretary general Frédéric Souillot, aims to unite both public and private sector workers in opposition to what has been characterized as harsh austerity measures proposed by François Bayrou, the Minister of Economy and Finance.

The strike follows a growing discontent among unions regarding specific austerity features including the elimination of two public holidays, proposed cuts to paid leave, new reforms to unemployment insurance, de-indexation of pensions, and increased medical co-payments. Union leaders argue that these cuts hit hardest on vulnerable groups such as workers, the unemployed, and retirees. “We cannot accept budget measures that sacrifice the future of our society and our citizens,” Souillot stated, emphasizing the unions' collective rejection of the austerity policies.

As part of their mobilization efforts, unions including CFDT, CGT, CFE-CGC, CFTC, Unsa, FSU, and Soldaires, have launched a petition against the budget proposals, gathering over 275,000 signatures to date. This unifying campaign illustrates the strong public sentiment against Bayrou’s proposed measures, with further calls for action circulating widely on social media independent of established union channels.

In his communique to Bayrou, Souillot underscored the possibility of alternative solutions such as increased contributions from wealthier citizens and businesses, and conditional public aid to companies, advocating for a more equitable financial strategy. He expressed hope for widespread participation in the strike, asserting that collective efforts could lead to a reconsideration of the proposed budget for the betterment of French society.

With the strike scheduled for the fall, unions are gearing up for what they anticipate will be a significant mobilization effort. The situation remains fluid as union members prepare to confront the government’s austerity agenda head-on.