Strike on 5 November: transport, schools, public services… what to expect this Thursday?

After several weeks of protest led in particular by young people, students and various citizens' movements, this new day of action is intended to bring the world of work more broadly into the mobilisation.

But in practical terms, what will it mean for people in France?

Why this mobilisation?

At the heart of the demands: purchasing power, wages, jobs, pensions and the defence of public services.

The unions are notably denouncing the rising cost of living, stagnating pay and concerns over the budgetary direction for 2027.

Among other things, they are calling for pay rises, better working conditions, more resources for public services and measures to support jobs and industry.

Transport: disruption expected

The rail sector is among the main sectors affected.

SNCF has announced disrupted services in the Grand Est region this Thursday. TER regional trains, Intercités services and some national routes could be affected.

Passengers are advised to check their timetables and connections before setting off.

In the major conurbations, urban transport networks could also run at reduced frequencies or with occasional interruptions.

Air transport is also affected, with strike notices filed in the air traffic control sector. Changes to flight schedules are therefore possible.

Schools: families urged to plan ahead

The national education system is also expected to see significant participation.

Disruption is expected in nursery and primary schools, with some likely to close for lack of available staff.

Secondary schools could also be affected, while secondary-school and student organisations are calling on people to join the movement.

Note, however: not all schools will be closed. The situation may vary considerably from one municipality to another.

In Florange, for example, the town council has already stated that the Trait d'Union and André Chénier schools would welcome pupils as normal.

Parents are therefore advised to contact their schools and local councils to find out what arrangements are in place.

Health, administration and public services

Hospitals and healthcare professionals are also affected by various calls to take action.

Essential care must nevertheless continue to be provided. Waiting times or the reorganisation of certain services remain possible.

La Poste, some government offices and other public services could also experience disruption.

The actual extent of these difficulties will depend on how many employees actually decide to strike.

In the Moselle, a rally announced in Metz

Preparations for the mobilisation are also under way in our region.

In Metz, a joint union rally has been announced for this Thursday, 5 November, at 2 pm, setting off from the Parvis des Droits de l'Homme in front of the Centre Pompidou-Metz.

The procession is due to head to Place Mazelle, then Place Saint-Martin, before passing along the Esplanade and Quai Paul Vautrin to finish at Place de la Comédie.

The Moselle prefecture has set out the route by decree. Traffic restrictions are to be expected in the area between 1 pm and 6 pm.

A day that could set the tone for what follows

Beyond the day-to-day disruption, this mobilisation will also be an indicator of the ability of different professional groups to unite around common demands.

Turnout among employees, teachers, railway workers, students and pensioners will be watched particularly closely.

One question remains: will 5 November be a one-off or the start of a longer-lasting mobilisation?

Key points

For residents, a few precautions are advisable:

• Check train and public transport timetables.
• Plan work-related journeys in advance.
• Check with schools.
• Allow for possible delays with certain administrative procedures.
• Avoid, if possible, the areas affected by the demonstrations.

Radio Tripoint will follow this day of action and its possible impact on the daily lives of people in our cross-border area.