After Nepal, France Erupts: ‘Block Everything’ protests set streets ablaze against Macron’s policies
Babushahi Bureau
Paris (France), September 10, 2025: After Nepal, France too has been rocked by mass unrest as thousands of protesters flooded the streets against political instability and President Emmanuel Macron’s economic policies.
The nationwide “Block Everything” (Bloquons tout) movement paralyzed the country on Wednesday, with highways blocked, vehicles set on fire, and violent clashes breaking out between demonstrators and police in Paris, Lyon, Marseille, Nantes, and other cities.
- Political Instability: The appointment of Sébastien Lecornu as the country’s fifth prime minister in less than a year has deepened public anger and eroded trust in Macron’s leadership.
- Economic Discontent: Harsh austerity measures and budget cuts have fueled widespread resentment, with protesters accusing the government of ignoring ordinary citizens’ struggles.
Born on social media, the movement is reminiscent of the 2018 Yellow Vest rebellion but more fragmented, with support ranging from right-wing groups to far-left activists. Its sole aim: to grind the nation to a halt and force the government to respond.
- Arson & Vandalism: A bus was torched in Rennes; a fire in Toulouse disrupted train services; barricades and garbage bins burned across Paris.
- Police Confrontations: Riot police fired tear gas as protests turned violent nationwide.
- Arrests: Over 200 protesters, including 132 in Paris, were detained despite the deployment of 80,000 security personnel, Home Minister Bruno Retailleau confirmed.The escalating “Block Everything” movement has thrown France into a deep political crisis, marking one of the most serious challenges to President Macron’s rule.