Major National Strike in France on December 2: Transport and Public Services Disrupted

France’s National Strike on December 2, 2025: What You Need to Know

France is set to experience significant disruptions on Tuesday 2nd December 2025, as major unions including the CGT, FSU, and Solidaires have called a nationwide strike. This large-scale industrial action targets the government’s 2026 budget proposal, which unions criticize as socially unfair and austerity-driven. The strike will impact public transport, schools, and various public services across the country, with potential ripple effects affecting daily life for millions.

Transport Disruptions: Severe Delays and Cancellations Expected

The strike is expected to cause widespread interruptions to transport networks, particularly:
- RATP network in Île-de-France with reduced frequency or complete suspensions on metro, RER, and bus lines.
- SNCF rail services, including regional and high-speed trains (TGV), face delays and cancellations.
- Air France pilots, represented by minority unions, may also strike on December 2 and 3, affecting flights.
Travelers should check updates prior to commuting, expect significant delays, and allow extra travel time or seek alternatives.

Education and Public Services Slowed Down

Schools across France will face teacher absences leading to potential school closures or only partial operation, including:
- Temporary closures of canteens and suspension of extracurricular activities.
- Some municipalities will provide minimum service; others may close entirely.
Public administration services will slow, with reduced access to prefectures, town halls, and government offices.
Health services and universities are also participating, causing limited access and potential appointment delays.

The Unions’ Demands: Fighting Against Austerity Measures

The strike protests the government’s 2026 Finance Bill, highlighting:
- Opposition to the planned elimination of 3,000 public sector jobs.
- Calls to end the salary freeze and abolish increased medical deductibles.
- Demands to revoke pension reforms and end the “year blank” freezing retirement pensions until 2030.
Unions aim to amplify pressure during the parliamentary budget debate and demand social, fiscal, and environmental justice.

Nationwide Demonstrations and How to Participate

Over 150 rallies and demonstrations are planned nationwide, including major gatherings such as:
- Place de l’Opéra in Paris at 16:00.
- Protests in cities including Bordeaux, La Rochelle, Dijon, Le Havre, Rouen, Lens, Douai.
- Regional activities, such as multiple events in the Var department (Toulon, Saint-Raphaël, Draguignan).
The union coalition encourages workers, retirees, youth, and jobseekers to participate.