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2h ago

France's May Day Protests Highlight Pension Reform and Job Security Concerns

Nationwide demonstrations draw between 157,000 and 300,000 participants, with tensions in Paris and unions calling for further strikes on June 5.

La place de la Nation, dans le douzième arrondissement de la capitale, a servi de point de ralliement.
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Lors de la manifestation à Paris, le 1er mai 2025.
Lors de la manifestation du 1er mai 2025, à Paris.

Overview

  • The CGT reported over 300,000 participants across 270 demonstrations, while the Interior Ministry counted 157,000, reflecting a dispute over turnout figures.
  • Protesters rallied against the 2023 pension reform, recent corporate layoffs, and broader economic and political issues, linking them to global authoritarian trends.
  • In Paris, black bloc groups attacked Socialist Party officials and militants, resulting in injuries and 52 arrests, with 28 placed in pretrial detention.
  • Major job cuts announced by companies like STMicroelectronics, Jennyfer, and ArcelorMittal fueled economic anxieties and amplified calls for labor protections.
  • The CGT announced a nationwide strike for June 5 to demand the repeal of the pension reform, though divisions among unions highlight ongoing challenges to solidarity.