Overview: A major interprofessional strike in Paris on October 2, 2025
Paris is bracing for a major interprofessional strike on Thursday, October 2, 2025, following the widespread mobilization on September 18 that disrupted transport and schooling across the Île-de-France region. The eight-union coalition—CFDT, CGT, FO, CFE-CGC, CFTC, UNSA, FSU, and Solidaires—have called for intensified action after talks with the Prime Minister on September 24 yielded no concrete concessions. The unions are pressing the government on several core demands, including abandoning the 2026 budget plan, reversing proposed medical copay increases, halting the loss of 3,000 public sector jobs, reforming unemployment rules, and repealing the 2023 pension reform. The movement aims to apply pressure before the Finance Bill is presented in the National Assembly, expected by mid-October.
This article reviews what to expect in Paris and Île-de-France in terms of transport, schools, airports, and the demonstration route, with practical tips to navigate or reduce disruption on October 2.
The demonstration route in Paris
An interprofessional demonstration is planned in Paris at 2:00 PM. The march will start at Place d’Italie (13th arrondissement) and proceed to Place Vauban near the Invalides (7th arrondissement). The assembly point is at the intersection of Rue Lebrun and Rue des Gobelins for participants who wish to join parallel processions. The route is designed to span a broad swath of central Paris from southeast to west, and authorities are expected to implement traffic measures around the starting and ending points. Expect road closures and detours along the route and near the arrival area in the late afternoon.
There is also talk of additional groups, such as the movement “Bloquons Tout,” potentially joining the day with road blockades that could further complicate travel for residents and visitors. In addition to Paris, demonstrations are anticipated in other major French cities, including Marseille, Lyon, Bordeaux, Toulouse, Nantes, and Strasbourg. The CGT has published an interactive map to help locate gatherings nationwide.
What to expect for transportation in Île-de-France
The October 2 strike is expected to cause disruption, but the level of impact is anticipated to be lower than on September 18. Transport authorities forecast mixed effects across networks:
- Metro, tram, and most automatic lines (for example, Lines 1, 4, and 14) are expected to run normally to near-normal levels.
- RER D and Transilien Line R are likely to experience significant disruptions, affecting commutes into the city and across suburbs.
- RER A and RER B should operate normally, offering some relief and alternative options for travelers.
Passengers are strongly advised to check live updates from RATP and SNCF, as line-by-line forecasts can change quickly with new information from authorities. When in doubt, consider flexible travel plans or teleworking where possible.
Airport disruptions and travel tips
Nationally, airport operations are expected to be mildly affected, with a focus on Béthune? Be careful: Beauvais airport is singled out for notable reductions. The Direction Générale de l’Aviation Civile (DGAC) has requested a 30% cut in flights at Paris Beauvais, and travelers are urged to verify flight status with their airline before heading to the airport.
Authorities stress that Paris CDG and Orly should remain operational, but delays can occur due to the broader disruption and ground handling constraints. If you have travel plans around this date, monitor official advisories and contact airlines in advance to confirm departures, arrivals, and any rebooking options.
Impact on schools and education
Education is a major focus of the October 2 mobilization. In many Parisian and Île-de-France schools, primary schools may implement partial or total closures based on staff attendance and managed through municipal arrangements. Secondary schools face higher uncertainty; teachers are not always required to declare a strike in advance, so closures could be announced by individual establishments at short notice. The SNES-FSU, the leading secondary teachers’ union, has signaled a plan of action in response to the prior surge in participation. Parents are advised to contact their child’s school or local education authority for real-time updates and to organize contingency plans for childcare if closures occur.
Hospitals and health care services
Hospitals will maintain essential services through minimum staffing levels and government requisitions where needed. Non-urgent appointments may be postponed; urgent care and emergency departments will continue to operate. If you have scheduled visits, contact your hospital to confirm whether your appointment remains on schedule and explore options for delaying non-urgent care.
Practical guidance: how to cope with the day
To minimize disruption on October 2, consider the following strategies:
- Prefer telework if possible to avoid commuting demands.
- Carpool, use bicycles or e-scooters, and capitalize on free carpooling schemes via Île-de-France Mobilités when available.
- Check live transit apps (CityMapper, Moovit) for real-time route options and delays.
- Plan for school closures by contacting your child’s school early and arranging backup childcare if needed.
While the day aims to maximize its impact, staying informed is key. Regularly consult official transport updates, educational authorities, and airport notifications to adapt plans as the situation evolves.
Broader national context
The October 2 strike reflects a broader push by public sector unions across France to influence budgetary and policy decisions ahead of the Finance Bill. While Paris often receives the highest attention for its demonstrations and transit disruptions, other major cities are expected to see actions that could complicate travel and daily routines nationwide.
Bottom line
Expect transport disruptions, potential school closures, and heightened traffic around central Paris on October 2, 2025. If you must travel, verify conditions in real time, plan for delays, and consider alternatives such as telework or flexible scheduling. By staying informed and prepared, you can minimize the impact of the protest day while supporting the broader public engagement underway.
