Following demonstrations earlier in the autumn, nearly all French trade unions have called for a day of mobilization on November 5. This general strike was announced on October 5 by an inter-union group comprising the CDFT, CGT, FO, UNSA, and FSU. The stated objectives are to defend salaries, public services, employment, and industry, while denouncing the reduction of resources allocated to public services. As of Tuesday, a map released by the CGT listed 244 planned demonstrations across France for Thursday.
In the education sector, several unions have joined the call to action, including the SNES-FSU, the largest union representing middle and high school teachers. These groups are demanding increased funding for national education, the withdrawal of the baccalaureate reform, and the end of the Parcoursup system. Additionally, all unions representing private schools under contract, which educate nearly 17% of French students, have called for a strike. This represents a first for these organizations.
Transportation services are also affected by the mobilization. The four main unions at SNCF, the national railway company, have urged their members to strike. Consequently, SNCF anticipates disrupted traffic on Thursday. In the Paris metropolitan area, RATP expects normal operations for its metro, bus, and tramway networks, with the exception of the RER B line.
Beyond the union-led actions, the coordination of the 'Yellow Vests' movement hopes that November 5 will be recognized not just as an inter-union day but as a day for the people. They aim to expand the mobilization and have called for strikes and blockades to continue on November 6. Furthermore, they are planning a fourth act on Saturday under the banner of 'real equality,' featuring demonstrations throughout France.
Sources: Le Monde Économie.