'Block Everything' protests sweep France, intensifying pressure on Macron
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France: Nationwide Protests as New PM Takes Office
Above: Protesters at the "Block Everything" protest in Paris, France, on Sept. 10, 2025. Image copyright: ALAIN JOCARD/AFP/Getty Images
The Spin
Pro-government narrative
The "Block Everything" protests, sparked by valid anger at France's crises, won't deliver the radical change violent protesters expect. Lacking clear leadership and a unified plan, the social media-driven movement lacks a strong working-class base to halt the economy. Relying on digital rhetoric over action, it risks fading, as activists' uncertainty shows, despite union support.
Government-critical narrative
These protests reflect shared frustration across France's left and right over Macron's chaotic governance, billions in cuts, and heavy-handed policing. "Block Everything" unites diverse groups demanding systemic change, with 66% supporting Macron's resignation. While disrupting infrastructure, it channels public anger into a call for fairer policies, economic relief and democratic reform, pushing for a unified stand against elite overreach and fiscal mismanagement.