Wide range of protests to take place across France against pension reform

By Esra Taskin

PARIS (AA) - Wide-range of rallies are expected to take place across France on Tuesday to protest the government's pension reform, according to Solidaires union on Monday.

Workers from various sectors such as transportation, energy, and education, will hold demonstrations at over 250 different locations across France, the union said.

Speaking to local media, Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin said that over 11,000 police and gendarmerie forces, including 4,000 in Paris, will ensure security.

Meanwhile, transportation is also expected to be highly affected in Paris and surroundings due to the strike action.

Earlier on broadcaster France 2, Mayor of Paris Anne Hidalgo declared that the municipality would be closing in solidarity with the protesters on Tuesday.

The pension reform project, which includes an increase to the retirement age from 62 to 64 in 2030, immediately triggered outrage from workers and unions when the government announced preparations last year.

Several unions called for demonstrations and strikes after Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne revealed details on Jan. 10.

Following the announcement, the country's main labor unions issued a statement last week that encouraged a nationwide strike and demonstrations.

Borne said the minimum pension would also rise to 85% of the minimum wage, meaning around €1,200 ($1,288) per month.

Starting in 2027, the change will also require at least 43 years of work to be eligible for full pensions, she said.