Hundreds of Thousands Expected to Protest in France: What Will Happen to Trains, Planes, and the Metro

France is preparing for a new wave of mass protests. On Thursday, November 5, unions have called on residents of the country to take to the streets demanding higher wages and an end to cuts in social spending. According to the LETA agency citing DPA, French authorities expect hundreds of thousands of people to participate in the demonstrations. In light of previous clashes during protests, authorities intend to increase the presence of security forces to prevent possible unrest. ### Strikes May Affect the Public Sector In addition to street demonstrations, unions have called on workers to join strikes. It is expected that public sector employees will respond to the call first. However, it is still unclear how extensive the work stoppages will be and which services may be affected. Particular attention is being paid to possible disruptions in transportation. ### What Will Happen to Trains, Planes, and the Metro? According to French media, the state railway operator SNCF currently forecasts only minor disruptions to long-distance train services. The situation with air travel remains less certain. It is still unknown how actively air traffic controllers will participate in the strike and whether this will lead to significant delays or cancellations of flights. Meanwhile, Paris Metro is expected to operate as usual according to current forecasts. Thus, despite the scale of the anticipated protests, serious disruptions to public transportation are not currently expected. ### "Yellow Vests" and Students Join the Protests The unions' call is supported by participants of the "Yellow Vests" movement, as well as organizations of schoolchildren and students. Over the past three Saturdays, they have already held demonstrations against the high cost of living and demanding improvements to the education system. In several instances, the actions were accompanied by clashes and violence. Now, the unions' demands against cuts in social spending and for higher wages are added to these issues. ### Government Considers Additional Increase in Minimum Wage The French government is trying to find a compromise with the protesters. Economy Minister Roland Lescure told BFMTV that the authorities are exploring the possibility of an additional increase in the minimum wage. This refers to an increase beyond what is already planned for January 2027. It is not yet reported how much the minimum wage may increase and whether a corresponding decision will be made. The issue of household income remains one of the central demands of the protesters.