Major chaos erupts in France, millions take to the streets, Eiffel Tower closed due to…, President Macron likely to…
According to the French Interior Ministry, at least 195,000 demonstrators were on the streets nationwide, including 24,000 in Paris alone.
New Delhi: In a major development, protests against austerity measures and tough economic policies flared up again in France. According to the reports, more than 200 cities and towns across the country, thousands of workers, retirees, students, and citizens took to the streets. In Paris, a march that began at Place d’Italie shook the entire city. The iconic tourist attraction, the Eiffel Tower, was shut down due to the strike.
According to the French Interior Ministry, at least 195,000 demonstrators were on the streets nationwide, including 24,000 in Paris alone. However, unions claimed the figure was much higher, crossing the one million mark.
These protests are part of a nationwide strike called by France’s major unions—such as CGT, FDT, and CFDT—amid ongoing political instability since last month and an intense debate over the 2026 budget. The main slogan of the demonstrators is: “Tax the rich more, stop cutting public services!” They are opposing the government’s proposed €44 billion austerity plan, which includes scrapping two public holidays and freezing social welfare programs.
Heavy march in Paris, Eiffel Tower locked down
In Paris, the rally began at 2 PM from Place d’Italie and reached Place Vauban. Protesters lit flares, waved banners, and raised slogans against the government. Jean-François Martins, president of the Eiffel Tower’s operating company, Société d’Exploitation de la Tour Eiffel (SETE), confirmed that most employees are on strike, which is why the Tower has been shut down due to the “national strike movement.”
A notice board at the Tower’s entrance read: “Eiffel Tower closed due to strike, we apologize.”
Tourists who purchased tickets online have been assured of refunds. This is the second time in recent days that the Eiffel Tower has been closed due to demonstrations—the first time being on September 18 during the “Block Everything” campaign. Police have deployed 76,000 law enforcement officers to prevent any violence. Previous demonstrations had seen smoke, arson, and tear gas being used.
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