Is Paris Still on Strike?

By Michael Ferguson

Paris has been in the news recently due to the ongoing strikes affecting the city. The protests have been taking place for several weeks now, causing significant disruption to public transport and other services. Many people are wondering if the strike is still ongoing and what impact it is having on daily life in Paris.

Background

The current strike in Paris began on December 5th, 2019, in response to proposed pension reforms by the French government. The proposed changes would see a shift from a system of special pension schemes for certain professions to a universal points-based system. This move has been met with significant opposition from trade unions, who argue that it would result in a loss of benefits for workers.

Impact of the Strike

The strike has had a substantial impact on daily life in Paris, with many public transport services disrupted or cancelled entirely. Metro lines have been particularly affected, with many stations closed and trains running at reduced frequencies. Bus and tram services have also been affected, leading to longer wait times and overcrowding.

In addition to public transport, other services have also been impacted by the strike. Schools have seen closures or reduced schedules, with teachers joining the protests. Hospitals have also been affected, with medical staff participating in strikes or working reduced hours.

The strike has also had an impact on businesses in Paris, particularly those that rely on tourism. Many visitors have cancelled their trips due to concerns about travel disruptions and safety concerns related to protests.

Current Status of the Strike

As of February 2020, the strike is no longer ongoing but there are still some intermittent disruptions reported. Public transport services are mostly back to normal but some lines may be experiencing delays or cancellations due to worker strikes or protests.

Conclusion

Overall, while the situation in Paris has improved since the height of the strike protests in December, the impact of the protests is still being felt in some areas. It is important for those planning to visit Paris or live in the city to stay informed about any ongoing disruptions and plan accordingly.