France Faces Threat of 200,000 Job Losses as CGT Calls for Strikes

The CGT warns of a surge in layoffs across major industries, urging nationwide worker action on December 12 to defend jobs and industry.

The CGT has identified nearly 250 planned layoffs affecting between 170,000 and 200,000 jobs, particularly in the automotive, aerospace, and retail sectors.
Sophie Binet, CGT's secretary general, has criticized large companies for prioritizing shareholder dividends over investments, wages, and consumption.
The union is pushing for measures like regulated energy prices for industries, protective trade barriers, and an expanded version of the Florange Law to safeguard jobs.
A nationwide strike and factory occupations are planned for December 12, with the CGT calling for unity among workers and other unions to resist job cuts.
Government officials and industry leaders acknowledge the challenges but emphasize the need for long-term strategies, including investment in green industries and European-level protections.