French unions renew strike call, accuse government of ignoring protest demands

By Seyma Erkul Dayanc

ISTANBUL (AA) - French trade unions on Wednesday renewed calls for a nationwide day of strikes and demonstrations, accusing the government of failing to address protesters’ demands following a weekend of unrest, broadcaster BFMTV reported.

Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu acknowledged growing social tensions and public anxiety, saying the government was preparing initial measures but would avoid making announcements before discussions with unions.

Lecornu said he was “very attentive to the climate of social tensions and anxieties” in the country and described himself as “clear-eyed” about the situation.

The government has also faced criticism over its handling of the unrest, which included looting, vandalism, and attacks on public buildings in several cities.

Interior Minister Laurent Nunez said authorities had no plans to declare a state of emergency. Instead, prefects would continue using existing measures, including restrictions on gatherings, protest bans, and localized curfews.

Nunez said security forces had brought serious incidents on Sunday to an end and that police and gendarmerie deployments would be increased ahead of further demonstrations on Saturday.

Justice Minister Gerald Darmanin said 2,500 people had been taken into police custody since the unrest began, with 174 people imprisoned on charges, including handling stolen goods and assault.

A 20-year-old student was also given a six-month suspended prison sentence and a five-year ban on working in the public sector after being arrested at the residence of the Gironde prefect in Bordeaux during Saturday’s unrest. Prosecutors have appealed the ruling.

The latest unrest followed nationwide protests on Oct. 17 over the cost of living and fuel prices, involving Yellow Vest demonstrators and students.

Authorities reported damage to businesses and public buildings, prompting localized curfews in several cities.

France has introduced localized curfews in several cities following unrest during Oct. 17 protests against rising living costs and deteriorating education conditions.

Further demonstrations are planned for Oct. 24, while unions have called for a nationwide strike and protest day on Nov. 5.

Şeyma Erkul Dayanç