Over 100,000 people expected in 'Block Everything' movement across France: Report

French intelligence services estimate that at least 100,000 people will participate in the nationwide mobilization that will take place on Sept. 10, according to a confidential memo seen by the broadcaster.

They also noted that energy, transport, and defense sectors could be the primary targets.

The grassroots protest that started on social media urges citizens to "Block Everything" on Sept. 10 with the aim of bringing the country to a halt in opposition to Prime Minister Francois Bayrou’s national budget plan.

Gaining momentum with the support of the far-left France Unbowed (LFI) party, the movement originated with a small online group "Les Essentiels," saying: "On September 10, we stop everything, not to escape, to say no."

In the meantime, French trade union organizations also called for a day of mobilization across the country on Sept. 18 to protest Bayrou's budget proposals.  

French political turmoil

France is facing mounting political tensions as Bayrou prepares for a crucial confidence vote in the National Assembly on Sept. 8.

Bayrou, who unveiled a 2026 budget framework in July, is seeking support for a plan to save nearly €44 billion ($51 billion) as part of efforts to reduce France’s soaring public debt, now at 113% of its GDP.

France also has one of the EU's largest budget deficits at 5.8%.

Warning that the country is “on the brink of over-indebtedness,” Bayrou urged lawmakers to choose “responsibility over chaos.”

Opposition parties across the spectrum, from the far-left LFI to the far-right National Rally (RN), as well as the Socialists, have vowed to vote against the government.

Budget negotiations have been a major source of tension in French politics.

The failure to reach an agreement on the 2025 budget last year led to the collapse of the Michel Barnier government in December, after left-wing and far-right parties united behind a no-confidence motion.