Following recent protests in Nepal, France is now grappling with widespread unrest. The ‘Block Everything’ movement initiated actions on Wednesday morning, causing significant disruptions throughout the nation. This included the blockage of highways, instances of arson, and general disorder on the streets. Several buses were also damaged by fire.
The unrest is unfolding despite a substantial presence of security forces, with major cities like Paris experiencing a decline in order. This surge in protests comes as the French political landscape is already unstable. The parliament recently ousted Prime Minister François Bayrou in a vote of no confidence. This situation prompted President Emmanuel Macron to appoint Sébastien Lecornu as his fifth Prime Minister.
The ‘Block Everything’ movement differs from typical demonstrations, as it stems from the belief that the current political system has failed to serve the public. The movement was initially founded by right-wing groups, but it now encompasses left-wing and far-left elements.
The protesters’ core message is to shut down the country’s machinery if the system fails to function effectively. As a result, they declared their intention to disrupt highways, cities, and transportation networks. This strategy gives rise to the movement’s name, ‘Block Everything’. In response, the government has mobilized 80,000 security forces, including 6,000 in Paris. French media suggest that approximately 100,000 individuals may be participating in these protests.
These protests mirror the 2018 ‘Yellow Vest’ uprising. During that time, public dissatisfaction regarding increasing fuel costs triggered demonstrations, which eventually transformed into a broader movement targeting President Macron’s policies. The current situation appears to be evolving in a similar manner.
Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau stated that around 50 masked individuals attempted to blockade highways in Bordeaux. A fire involving a cable in Toulouse caused traffic congestion. The Paris police confirmed the arrest of 75 protesters. The Vinci company reported traffic disruptions in major cities, including Marseille, Montpellier, Nantes, and Lyon.