Unaffiliated, Politically Active, Extreme Left-wing: Who Are the 'Block Everything' Demonstrators of France?
France's "Block Everything" Movement Gathers Momentum
The "Block Everything" movement, a radical-left protest group in France, is set to mobilize up to 100,000 people on September 10, according to a police intelligence note. The movement, which emerged primarily through social media, independently of traditional unions and political parties, has gained significant traction, expressing widespread anger over economic policies under President Macron.
The movement's core concerns are social justice and climate. According to a survey, 54 percent of supporters cite rising inequality as a top concern, and 43 percent prioritize the environment. The supporters also overwhelmingly endorse redistribution and social justice, with 91 percent agreeing that the rich should give to the poor.
The movement's base is diverse, with young people, students, and members associated with the radical left party La France Insoumise (LFI) forming a significant portion. Interestingly, more than half of the supporters hold university degrees at bachelor level or higher, contrasting with the Yellow Vest movement.
The survey also reveals that 27 percent of "Block Everything" respondents admit to having participated in the Yellow Vest movement, and another 61 percent supported it. However, only 4 percent of "Block Everything" supporters are over 70, contrasting with the Yellow Vests.
The movement's political leanings are evident, with 51 percent of respondents placing themselves at the far left of the political spectrum. Moreover, more than 80 percent of "Block Everything" supporters favor referendums or citizens' assemblies to decide laws, compared to 37 percent of the general population.
The movement has drawn comparisons to the 2018-2019 Yellow Vest (Gilets jaunes) protests. However, the "Block Everything" movement has been more organized and focused, with a clear political agenda.
The prospect of the government's resignation, following a no-confidence vote on September 8, has strengthened the determination of the protesters. This comes as France's Prime Minister, Francois Bayrou, faces criticism over the draft 2026 budget, which includes scrapping two national holidays, freezing pensions, and cutting β¬5 billion from health spending.
The article was adapted from a French original by AnaeΜlle Jonah. The "Block Everything" movement, with its focus on social justice and climate, and its radical-left base, is set to present a significant challenge to the current government.
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