Public services and transportation across France are expected to face major disruptions on Tuesday, September 29, as workers in several sectors join a nationwide strike.
Teachers, healthcare workers, firefighters and transport employees are among those expected to participate in the industrial action, which is likely to affect schools, government offices and public transportation, particularly in Paris and the Île-de-France region.
The U.S. Mission in France issued a travel advisory on Monday, warning residents and visitors to prepare for delays and possible interruptions to essential services.
A major demonstration is scheduled to take place in Paris, with protesters expected to march from Place de la République through Bastille to Place de la Nation.
Public transport is also expected to be heavily affected. RATP, which operates the Paris Metro, RER and bus networks, has issued an open-ended strike notice beginning Monday evening.
SNCF services could equally face disruptions on Tuesday following strike action by workers affiliated with SUD Rail.
The U.S. Mission advised travellers to check transport updates before setting out, allow additional time for journeys and consider alternative routes.
Schools and government offices in Paris and Île-de-France may also close or operate with reduced services during the strike.
The mission specifically urged commuters to monitor RATP updates for information on station closures and transport disruptions, while also keeping track of local media reports.
The industrial action comes amid wider labour tensions involving several public-sector groups across the country.
Firefighters are also using the mobilisation to draw attention to concerns over funding, staffing and working conditions following a summer marked by extensive wildfires across France.
Reports indicate that the fires destroyed more than 100,000 hectares, injured hundreds of people and resulted in the deaths of four firefighters.
Among the demands attributed to the firefighters are increased funding for Departmental Fire and Rescue Services (SDIS), the recruitment of about 21,000 professional firefighters and stronger measures to safeguard their health.
On Monday, firefighters reportedly marched through Paris from Bercy, passing the Ministry of the Economy and Finance as part of their protest.
The U.S. Mission also advised English-speaking residents and visitors to follow France 24, Radio France Internationale and The Local France for updates as the strike develops.
