Massive protests have erupted across France as a nationwide general strike brings demonstrators into the streets.

The action has disrupted trains, public transportation, flights and public services across the country.

The strike, called for Thursday, November 5, involves teachers, health care workers, government employees and public transport workers. Demonstrations are also expected nationwide and could continue through the weekend, with marches listed in cities including Marseille, Toulouse, Bordeaux, Dijon, Caen and Nimes.

The United States Embassy in Paris issued a security warning to Americans in France ahead of the strike. The alert, issued on November 4, warned that rail disruptions could begin as early as the evening of November 4, while metro services could face delays or last minute station closures.

In Paris, transport operator RATP said numerous metro stations would close from 10:45 a.m. on Thursday at the request of police for security reasons. The embassy also urged travellers to contact their airlines directly because flights could be affected. The Paris march was scheduled to run from Place de la Republique to Place de la Nation.

The strike is part of a broader dispute over wages, public services, employment and the French government budget plans. Unions, including the General Confederation of Labour, are demanding higher wages and pensions, greater funding for public services and changes to the government proposed state and Social Security budgets for 2027.

The warning follows violence during recent demonstrations. French officials said groups attacked government related sites, looted businesses and violently confronted police during demonstrations on October 17. The Louvre was also forced to close after protesters blocked entrances earlier in October.

The United States has not imposed a travel ban on France. The country remains at Level 2, Exercise Increased Caution, a rating issued on October 21 because of terrorism and unrest. Americans in France are advised to avoid demonstrations and large gatherings, monitor local authorities for curfew information, allow extra time for journeys and enrol in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program for security alerts.