France's "Block Everything" Movement Begins with Arrests

(MENAFN) At least 83 individuals have been detained across France as the "Block Everything" movement commenced on Wednesday.

Authorities took into custody 75 people in Paris and an additional eight across other regions of the country, according to a broadcaster, which cited the most recent police reports.

Reports indicate that over 1,000 participants are involved in various demonstrations nationwide, with at least 30 separate gatherings taking place.

In Marseille, several hundred demonstrators assembled, while in Lyon, up to 300 protesters congregated, overturning trash bins and obstructing traffic.

The protests have also reached educational institutions, with multiple high schools in Paris reported to be blocked.

Organizers anticipate more than 100,000 people will join France's "Block Everything" movement on Wednesday.

The grassroots campaign, which originated on social media, encouraged citizens to "Block Everything" on Sept. 10, aiming to bring the country to a standstill in opposition to outgoing Prime Minister Francois Bayrou’s national budget plan.

The movement, which has gained traction with support from the far-left France Unbowed (LFI) party, began with a small online group called "Les Essentiels," stating: "On September 10, we stop everything, not to escape, to say no."

Meanwhile, French trade union organizations have also called for a nationwide day of mobilization on Sept. 18 to protest Bayrou's budget proposals.

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