The Situation:
Major trade unions have called for a nationwide strikes and demonstrations from 1-6 October over pay, working conditions, and other demands.
On 1 October, pensioners from nine unions are expected to demonstrate in over 107 “initiatives” in 86 departments across the country.
On 2 October, demonstrations over the COVID health pass are expected to continue for the 11th consecutive week in various cities.
The General Confederation of Labor (CGT), Public Transport Unions representing French National Railway Company (SNCF) employees, Public Sector Unions representing public sector workers, including civil servants and education workers, and other major trade unions have called for a nationwide general strike and demonstrations on 5 October.
The Paris Autonomous Transit Authority (RATP) Employees have filed a strike notice from 4-6 October that will impact public transport services in the Ile-de-France region including train, metro, tram, and bus services.
The action is likely to result in business and transport disruptions nationwide, though participation will vary between sectors.
The largest gathering will take place in Paris, where the demonstration is organized at Place de la Republique from 14:00. Additional confirmed demonstrations include:
Bordeaux: Place de la Republique, 11:30
Lille: Porte de Paris, 14:30
Lyon: Manufacture des Tabacs, 11:00
Marseille: Porte d'Aix, 10:30
Montpellier: Cours Gambetta, 10:30
Nantes: Prefecture, 10:00
Nice: Place Massena, 10:00
Rennes: Esplanade Charles de Gaulle, 11:00
Toulouse: Place Arnaud Bernard, 10:30
Possible Effects:
Delays or cancellations of travel reservations lasting several hours prior to and after the strike
Possible protests or demonstrations at transportation hubs, city centers, and near government buildings
Traffic delays due to unavailable services, strikes, demonstrations, etc.
Blocked roads and increased law enforcement presence due to demonstrations
Limited transportation options
Possible business closures in the vicinity of demonstration sites
Increased traffic congestion is possible due to an increased demand for alternative transport
Follow-on and tandem demonstrations
Mitigating Factors to Apply:
Prepare for disruptions caused by protests, such as increased traffic/security, blocked roads, and potential travel into demonstration sites (i.e. train stations, highways, government buildings)
Check the local situation (local and social media, embassy, POC at the destination, etc.) prior to travel
Confirm itinerary prior to utilizing any public transportation, if necessary
Avoid all protests and demonstration, which have the possibility of turning violent and may serve as a catalyst for Covid-19 spread
Allow extra time to travel to/from the destination, airport, and accommodations
Monitor local and social media for updates
Enroll in a Safe Traveler program to receive warnings from your preferred embassy
Plan for alternative transportation, if necessary
DISCLAIMER and Hold Harmless Disclaimer: LSDS™ gathers information from multiple sources and offers insight and perspective to travelers. Sources cannot be validated for accuracy in every instance. Travelers assume all risk associated with their travel and are responsible for the decisions associated with travel and for their own safety. Users of this reference document agree, to hold harmless LSDS™ (LLC) its employees and clients associated with any risk or injury incurred during travel.
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