Saturday, March 29, 2025
Paris, October 3, 2025 – France has once again been thrown into chaos as millions of people returned to the streets on Thursday in a massive wave of nationwide demonstrations against the government’s austerity policies. The unrest forced the closure of the country’s most iconic landmark, the Eiffel Tower, leaving tourists disappointed.
The demonstrations, organized by France’s leading unions — CGT, FDP, and CFDT — spread across more than 200 towns and cities. According to the Interior Ministry, at least 195,000 people participated nationwide, with 24,000 in Paris alone. Union leaders, however, claimed the turnout exceeded one million.
The protests are part of a nationwide strike opposing the government’s proposed €44 billion austerity plan, which includes eliminating two public holidays and slashing welfare benefits. Demonstrators marched through Paris from Place d’Italie to Place Vauban, chanting slogans like “Tax the rich, stop cutting public services!”
The Eiffel Tower was closed after most employees joined the strike. Jean-François Martins, president of the tower’s operating company SET (Société d’Exploitation de la Tour Eiffel), confirmed the closure, citing the “national strike movement.” A notice at the entrance read: “The Eiffel Tower is closed due to the strike. We apologize for the inconvenience.”
Tourists who had purchased tickets online were promised full refunds. This marked the second time in recent weeks that the landmark was shut due to protests, the first being on September 18 during the “Block Everything” campaign.
Authorities deployed 76,000 police officers nationwide to prevent clashes. Although Thursday’s protests remained largely peaceful, previous demonstrations have been marred by smoke, arson, and tear gas. Protesters carried torches, banners, and posters targeting billionaires like LVMH CEO Bernard Arnault, accusing the wealthy of tax evasion while ordinary citizens suffer under rising inflation and living costs.
The protests come amid growing political instability in France. President Emmanuel Macron’s government lacks a full parliamentary majority, and the 2026 budget debate has reached a deadlock. Opposition parties and grassroots organizations have joined the movement, intensifying pressure on the government.
Unions have vowed to continue the demonstrations until the end of the year, when the parliament is expected to finalize the budget bill. With the economy under strain and public anger mounting, France faces one of its most significant social and political challenges in recent years.
