France Experiences Widespread Strikes and Protests in Response to Macron’s Pension Reforms

On Thursday, March 23, 2023, France experienced widespread labor strikes and protests in response to President Emmanuel Macron’s pension reforms. Demonstrations were held in major cities such as Marseille, Lyon, and Nantes, as well as in 240 towns and cities across the country.

The strikes caused major disruptions in transportation, particularly at Paris’ Charles de Gaulle airport, as well as regional and commuter trains and subway systems. An estimated 20% of teachers in France went on strike, and some 400 high schools were blockaded by students. Videos on social media showed un-emptied dumpsters set alight and police firing tear gas to control crowds.

The pension reforms have been met with widespread public anger, as Macron forced the higher retirement age through parliament without a vote. The demonstrations on Thursday were the first mass protests since the reforms were announced.

The French government has yet to comment on the protests, but the country is bracing for further disruption as the strikes and protests continue. It remains to be seen how the government will respond to the public’s anger and how the pension reforms will be affected.