Nationwide Protests on November 5 in France See Large Turnouts, Clashes, and Ongoing Union Negotiations

On November 5, 2026, France saw a significant national day of intersyndical labor protests across multiple regions, including the Pyrénées-Atlantiques and the Var. The day was marked by large demonstrations, law enforcement interventions, and preparations for further union actions.

In Pyrénées-Atlantiques, peaceful and tumultuous demonstrations unfolded in Pau and Bayonne. Pau's protest began at 10:30 AM, with up to 5,600 participants marching calmly along an agreed route and dispersing without incident. Conversely, Bayonne’s protest, starting at 10 AM with around 5,000 people, experienced unrest when about 200 individuals broke away to approach the sub-prefecture, where gatherings were banned. Law enforcement halted the group, dispersing them without further escalation.

Earlier disturbances in both Pau and Bayonne involved student protests, road blockades, and property damage such as fires and vandalism. Authorities reported seven arrests—four in Pau and three in Bayonne—and seven police officers injured during interventions. Prefect Simon FETET condemned the violent acts against officials, praised the dedication of law enforcement and emergency personnel, and wished a speedy recovery to the injured officers.

In the Var region, five declared demonstrations, including one rally and four processions, were authorized with the prefecture agreeing not to oppose them. This led to expected traffic disruptions, particularly around Toulon’s eastern entrance. Security forces were mobilized to maintain public order throughout the events.

Preparations for follow-up actions include a planned mobilization on November 7 in Morbihan, centered on a declared rally in Vannes with a designated route confirmed by the prefecture. Strict measures are in place, including bans on unregistered protests, prohibitions on carrying flammable and dangerous items, and harsh penalties for violations to ensure safety.

Following the November 5 events, unions are set to meet with the Prime Minister on November 9 to discuss potential increases in the minimum wage (smic). While the government may propose a boost, unions express concern that the measure may fall short of their demands, signaling ongoing negotiations and possible further mobilizations.

These nationwide protests highlight both the widespread dissatisfaction among workers and students and the challenges faced by authorities in balancing the right to protest with maintaining public order in France.