Overview

• Over 270 demonstrations were held across France on May 1, with the CGT reporting 300,000 participants, while the Interior Ministry counted 157,000.
• In Paris, Socialist Party members were attacked by black bloc protesters, leading to injuries and legal complaints from the party.
• Police reported 72 arrests nationwide, including 29 in Paris, following clashes and isolated incidents during otherwise peaceful marches.
• Key grievances included pension reforms, job losses at major firms like ArcelorMittal, and concerns over military spending overshadowing social priorities.
• The CGT, led by Sophie Binet, announced a national strike and demonstrations on June 5 to demand the repeal of the 2023 pension reforms.