Daily LifeStrikes in France

Updates on strikes in France

Strikes (Grèves) in France are quite common; the right is guaranteed in the French constitution, with the public sector having the highest frequency. The last major, long-lasting national strike took place in 1996, in a response to the 'Plan Juppé;' it lasted for over a month. Every year in France has one public sector strike, usually lasting one day.

In France, striking is just part of the process. There is little bargaining between management and workers before things get to the decision stage. At that point, management acts and the workers respond. The concept of collective bargaining does not exist in France.

It is not uncommon at the national or local level for teachers, doctors, and transport workers to strike - be it long term or just for a day or so. SNCF (National French train company) strikes seem to be the ones that are the most disrupting, as France depends greatly on its rail system.

The year 2007 is shaping up to be a very active, with major unions calling on their members to use street power to fight the government's attempt to reform the retirement system.