France is facing significant disruptions in May due to planned strikes by doctors and rail workers. These strikes, driven by distinct grievances, threaten to impact healthcare services and transportation across the country.

Doctor Strike: May 1 Onwards

Doctors are striking in response to a proposed bill that would restrict newly-trained doctors from opening practices in areas already saturated with medical professionals. The aim of the bill is to address ‘medical deserts’ by directing new doctors to regions with shortages. Under the proposal, new doctors could only establish practices in underserved areas, while in areas with sufficient healthcare professionals, they would only be able to open a surgery when a current doctor retires. Several unions representing independent doctors and healthcare professionals have urged their members to strike in solidarity with young doctors, leading to the closure of numerous medical offices. The strike began on April 28 and is, in many instances, ‘unlimited,’ meaning there is no fixed end date. The strike's duration will likely extend into May as the bill undergoes further debate and voting in Parliament. The intensity of the strike action could escalate depending on the bill's outcome. While urgent medical care is expected to remain available, routine and lower-level appointments may face cancellations or delays.

Rail Worker Strike: May Onwards (particularly May 5 - 11)

Separate rail strikes are poised to create widespread chaos in France, particularly around the May 8 public holiday and the subsequent weekend. Ticket inspectors initiated a strike in mid-April, which is scheduled to continue until June 2, although its impact has been minimal to date. However, the SUD-Rail union has called for intensified strike action by inspectors between May 7 and May 11, potentially leading to significant delays and cancellations. Major unions have also called on drivers to strike on May 7 to protest work, pay, and retirement conditions. The CGT has broadened the strike call, urging its members to strike from May 5. The combined effect of these strikes could result in a ‘black week’ for rail travel, causing severe disruptions and potential cancellations across major national routes. The precise extent of the disruption remains uncertain, but negotiations are ongoing, offering a possibility that the strikes may be called off.