September 10, 2025, France is reeling from one of its most disruptive protest waves in recent history as the grassroots “Block Everything” movement, known locally as Bloquons Tout—takes center stage. What began as a decentralized online campaign has erupted into nationwide unrest, revealing deep fractures in the country’s political and social landscape.
The turmoil was triggered by the collapse of Prime Minister François Bayrou’s government after a failed confidence vote in parliament. His controversial austerity budget, which proposed pension freezes, healthcare cuts, and the removal of national holidays, sparked outrage across the political spectrum. In response, President Emmanuel Macron appointed Sébastien Lecornu, a centre-right loyalist, as the new Prime Minister, a move widely criticised as out of touch with public sentiment. Read more on France24’s explainer on the movement and BBC’s coverage of Macron’s political challenges.
In anticipation of unrest, the government deployed 80,000 police officers, including 6,000 in Paris. Clashes erupted in cities like Lyon, Marseille, and Nantes, with protesters setting fires, blocking roads, and attempting to paralyze infrastructure. Tear gas was used to disperse crowds, and by midday, over 295 arrests had been made. Schools, transport systems, and public services were heavily affected. DW reports that protests disrupted over 100 schools, while CNN highlights the scale of police deployment and urban clashes.
Protesters expressed deep frustration with Macron’s leadership. “We are tired of his successive governments, we need change,” said Florent, a demonstrator in Lyon. Banners calling for Macron’s resignation were seen across multiple cities, reflecting a growing sentiment that the government is disconnected from everyday realities.
