Nationwide unrest broke out across France on Wednesday as protesters blocked roads, set fires and clashed with police, who responded with tear gas, as anger grows against the country’s political class.

When are the strikes taking place, and how long will they last? The strikes protesting austerity measures came into effect on Wednesday, September 10, 2025. Several unions representing air and rail workers are participating.

France's interior minister announces nearly 200 arrests in early stages of nationwide day of protests

On 18 September, a French air traffic control strike is expected to affect thousands of travellers. View on euronews

French President Emmanuel Macron has appointed defence minister Sébastien Lecornu as his new prime minister, turning to one of his closest allies to try to quell political turmoil in the country. Macron moved quickly after outgoing premier François Bayrou was ousted in a confidence vote in parliament on Monday over his plan to reduce France’s deficit through a €44bn package of tax increases and spending cuts.

French Armed Forces Minister Sebastien Lecornu is French President Emmanuel Macron's pick to become France's next prime minister amid budget concerns.