France’s November 5 strikes cause widespread disruption: what to know today

Major protests are taking place across France today, with disruption expected to rail, roads, schools and other public services.  

Unions have called on public- and private-sector workers to walk out, as well as inviting lycée pupils and retired people to join demonstrations. 

Organisers of the renewed gilets jaunes protests have also urged backers to join today’s events.

The interior ministry estimates between 500,000 - 700,000 protesters on the streets – excluding demonstrators in Paris –  and has mobilised 70,000 law enforcement officers.

If these numbers are correct, it would be the largest protest seen in France for several years, since the pension reform protests in March 2023.

Around 250 official demonstrations are taking place across France, including many marches in larger cities. A map of official demonstrations can be found here on the CGT union website, including information about times and locations of events.

An unofficial participatory map of possible gilets jaunes action is available here, and as of this morning lists 449 events. 

Several sectors impacted

Major disruption is expected on local rail lines, with severe disruption on regional TER trains in the Provence-Alpes Côte d'Azur, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, Brittany, Occitanie, and Hauts-de-France regions. 

Most other regions will see some disruption. 

However, high-speed lines are largely running as planned, with only one in 10 TGVs set to be cancelled.

The SNCF offered a €400 bonus to rail workers on Tuesday as part of efforts to mitigate the impact of the strike.

In Paris and the Île-de-France region, disruption to RER B, C, D, E, and train lines J, L, H, N, R and U is expected. Buses and trams should run as scheduled.

Local public transport services may be impacted in other cities. 

Drivers too could face disruption on the roads with demonstrations planned at roundabouts and roads in city centres likely to become blocked by protests. Drivers planning to head out today should read our advice here.

However, there does not seem to be any disruption to flights to or from France today, but there may be disruption at airports from airport staff striking.

France’s education ministry said that 17.54% of teachers in primary schools and nurseries  have announced their intention to strike today, affecting many schools. However, these facilities are covered by minimum service regulations and parents will have been informed in advance of disruption.

Lycée pupils (aged 15 - 17/18) are continuing their protests outside some schools, and are set to add to disruption today. 

Disruption to other sectors including government services, health, pharmacies, and high street shops are all possible, and you should check in advance that the appointment you have or place you want to visit is not impacted by the demonstrations.