France: “Block Everything” Protests Surge as New PM Lecornu Takes Office
- Shristi Singh
- 11 September 2025
Introduction:
On 10 September 2025, Sébastien Lecornu was appointed as France’s new Prime Minister amid widespread nationwide protests. Demonstrators, mobilized under the “Block Everything” movement, disrupted daily life through mass transport blockades, burning barricades, and violent clashes with police in response to unpopular austerity reforms introduced by the previous government.
Background:
France has faced recurring political instability following the downfall of PM François Bayrou after his failed confidence vote. Bayrou’s austerity budget—featuring pension freezes and cuts to public spending—sparked discontent and gave rise to the grassroots “Bloquons tout” (“Block Everything”) movement. This campaign, fueled by digitally connected youth and populist left groups, aimed for a full-scale shutdown of the country beginning 10 September.
Key Developments:
Sébastien Lecornu took office, inheriting a fractured parliament with no clear majority, and now faces the urgent task of passing the 2026 budget by 7 October.
“Block Everything” protests spread nationwide, causing traffic disruptions, property damage, and clashes with law enforcement. Dozens of demonstrators were arrested.
Security forces deployed over 80,000 police officers to contain unrest and maintain public order.
Issues:
Immediate Governance Hurdle – Lecornu’s ability to navigate budget approval will determine his short-term political survival.
Fraying Social Contract – The intensity of protests reflects deep-seated anger at austerity measures, weakening trust in government institutions.
Rising Polarization – Far-left and far-right factions continue to gain traction, threatening the stability of centrism and President Macron’s political legacy.
Current Status:
As of mid-September 2025, Lecornu faces an uphill battle in securing parliamentary support for the budget while balancing nationwide unrest. Trade unions and activist groups have pledged further mobilizations, signaling prolonged confrontation. European partners remain watchful of France’s fiscal credibility as its political crisis unfolds.
Conclusion:
France stands at a critical crossroads. With Lecornu newly installed, his ability to manage public outrage and broker parliamentary consensus will determine whether France stabilizes or plunges deeper into political and social fragmentation.
