Background: why a new strike on October 2, 2025
France faces a renewed wave of mobilizations as unions call a nationwide strike for Thursday, October 2, 2025. After an initial flare-up on social media anchored by the CGT, FSU and Solidaires, and a second day of action on September 18, the inter-union coalition (CFDT, CGT, FO, CFE-CGC, CFTC, Unsa, FSU and Solidaires) has declared a third mass mobilization. The aim is to pressure the government over budget measures and pension reforms, including the broader context of the so-called “année blanche” and other fiscal changes addressed in the current year’s plan. The call comes amid warnings that reform momentum may not be reversed by the government, despite differing opinions among ministers and party leadership.
What to expect for transport on October 2
Transports across France are the centerpiece of this mobilization, with daily life in urban and regional networks likely to feel the impact. The Ministry of Transport stated that service on the TGV and most of the RATP network would be “normal” on Thursday, even as some disruptions were anticipated on less stable legs of the network. SNCF Voyageurs highlighted that Intercités routes will face disruptions on several main axes—Lyon–Nantes, Bordeaux–Nantes and Marseille–Bordeaux—with lighter disruption on Paris–Clermont-Ferrand and Paris–Limoges–Toulouse corridors. For the Île-de-France region, RER services could see minor interruptions: RER C may be slightly perturbed, with RER D and E, and certain Transilien lines (L, N, R, U) experiencing more noticeable disruptions. In central Paris, the route map remains largely intact for the RATP network, with the exception of the RER B within the RATP perimeter, where service is expected to run near normally. Outside Paris, air travel is projected to carry only limited delays, with the overall impact considered modest by authorities.
Regional and suburban lines
As in prior protests, regional services such as TER and some Transilien lines could see reduced frequency or delays. Travelers are advised to check local operator advisories ahead of departure and to allow extra time for planning, especially for intercity and regional trips that rely on Intercités or heavy rail connections.
Schools and universities: how education is affected
The education sector remains mobilized, though participation is expected to be lower than on September 18. The SNUipp-FSU, the leading union for primary teachers, anticipated around 10% of staff to be on strike in kindergartens and elementary schools, compared with roughly 17.5% during the prior day of action. In secondary schools, mobilization also appears to be cooling, though the SNES-FSU has called for broader participation and vigilance in lycée settings where demonstrations and barrages may re-emerge. The August–September period already saw about 17% of teachers taking part on September 18, with several high schools either blocked or subject to student-led filtering operations. Parents and students should anticipate school access to fluctuate depending on local actions and campus-level decisions.
Health and social services
In health and social care, the CFDT Santé-Sociaux has filed a pre-warning for October 2, mobilizing personnel across sanitary, social and medico-social establishments. The unions are pushing for a more equitable budget that reduces debt without disproportionately impacting staff. While a minimum service will be maintained where required, the degree of staffing may vary by facility, so patients should verify appointment availability and emergency provisions in advance.
Public services and administration
The CGT in public services and allied unions have urged local as well as national actions where possible, covering municipal authorities, public establishments, housing offices, water services and even funeral services. In prior actions, around one in eight state agents participated; expect similar patterns in some regions, with local demonstrations or work stoppages possible alongside national rallies.
Practical planning tips for Thursday
Anyone traveling or relying on public services should stay informed with official updates from transport operators and local authorities. If you must travel on October 2, consider adjusting plans to avoid peak hours, check real-time traffic and train status, and allow extra time for changes in routes or service levels. For families and workers, contingency planning—remote work options, flexible hours, or alternative travel routes—could reduce disruption. While the organized actions aim to press for policy changes, most essential services plan to operate at minimum levels to ensure safety and public welfare.
Conclusion
As unions press for budgetary changes and deeper reforms, October 2, 2025 promises another day of protests with a mix of normal and disrupted services across transport, education, health, and public sector work. By staying informed and planning ahead, residents can navigate the day of action while supporting civic participation and essential services.
