France Faces September Shutdown: Citizens Plan Peaceful Rebellion Against Austerity
New grassroots movement calls for full national halt to protest PM Bayrou’s controversial budget plan
A Group of Unknown Citizens Sparks a Bold Nationwide Protest
A group of around 20 people formed the movement mobilisation10septembre on social media. They describe themselves as apolitical and independent. They launched a website on July 19, calling for a complete shutdown of France starting September 10, 2025.
They chose this date to coincide with the “start of the social year,” a time when political activity restarts after summer. The group says they’re simply “fed up” with what they call PM Bayrou’s destruction of justice and solidarity. They are not connected to any political party but have received media attention for their bold demands and strategic timing.
What the Group Wants: Boycott, Disobedience, and Solidarity
The group urges citizens to boycott large corporations, major banks, fast fashion, and gig economy platforms such as Amazon and Uber. They suggest people withdraw money from large banks and invest in local or cooperative alternatives instead.
They ask workers to slow down production, take leave, or file sick days where possible to limit economic activity. Symbolic actions include delaying taxes or refusing to validate public transport tickets to protest government misuse of funds. The movement also promotes buying local, sharing resources, and supporting alternative supply chains for everyday needs.
Civil Disobedience and Community Support Are Core Tactics
Strikes in healthcare, education, and transport are promoted by the group as powerful acts of legitimate civil disobedience. Peaceful occupations of public buildings and targeted road blockades are endorsed to raise awareness and amplify their collective message.
Emphasising solidarity, the group urges supporters to create strike funds and organise training sessions or workshops within their communities. Daily cooperation, mutual aid, and shared values are viewed by the group as essential for building long-term resistance and resilience.
“Solidarity is not a slogan—it’s a survival tool,” they declare, underscoring the urgent need for unity in times of crisis.
Public Opinion Split, But Dissatisfaction Runs Deep
The movement has under 1,000 social media followers, but the petition has gained union support, including CGT, CFDT, and FO. An Ifop poll found 57% of French citizens believe Bayrou’s budget is necessary, but only 28% think it’s fair. An Ipsos poll showed Bayrou’s popularity has fallen to 20%, with 59% of people wanting a new prime minister.
The plan includes cutting Easter Monday and VE Day as public holidays to save €43.8 billion by 2026. With tensions rising, some speculate the shutdown could spark protests similar to the gilets jaunes movement.