Tens of thousands marched across French cities on Thursday, October 2nd, as trade unions protested against the sharp spending cuts proposed in next year’s budget.
Demonstrators aim to win concessions from President Emmanuel Macron and his new prime minister, Sébastien Lecornu, who are both struggling to secure support for the latest budget proposals amid rising criticism.
Unions are demanding more funding for public services, a reversal of the recent retirement age hike, and higher taxes on the wealthy. According to General Confederation of Labour leader, Sophie Binet
We need to end the sacrifices being demanded of workers.
Around 85,000 people had joined protests by midday, according to the Interior Ministry—fewer than at previous demonstrations. Some high schools were blocked by students and 76,000 police officers were deployed to maintain order.
France’s budget deficit, at 5.8% of GDP, is nearly double the EU’s 3% limit. Lecornu has promised a budget with more “fiscal fairness,” but has ruled out reinstating a wealth tax, raising doubts among protesters about real change.
