"Imposed a complete shutdown"

In the heart of France, a new movement has taken shape, challenging the government's proposed budget cuts and demanding change. Known as Bloquons Tout, or "Block Everything," this grassroots movement has gained significant traction since its inception in early September 2025.

The movement, primarily composed of supporters of the radical left and the younger generations, was formed in response to Prime Minister François Bayrou's announcement of massive budget cuts. These cuts would significantly impact social infrastructure, public services, and social welfare.

Bloquons Tout has three watchwords: Boycott, Disobedience, and Solidarity. The network, unstructured and without a program or authorized spokespeople, calls on all deputies to refuse to grant the government their trust. It has gained support from various political entities, including Jean-Luc Melenchon's France Insoumise, socialists, and some trade unions.

The energy sector of the CGT union has threatened to block at least 40 facilities, adding weight to the movement's call for a national day of action on September 18th. Local preparation meetings are taking place across France, from Corsica to Calais, with between 60 and several hundred participants.

According to a survey by the Fondation Jean Jaurès, 63% of respondents support the call for a blockade by Bloquons Tout. This support is reflected in the movement's growing popularity, with around 100 local and regional support groups communicating via Telegram and Signal channels.

Prime Minister Bayrou's approval ratings have dropped below 18%, making him the least popular prime minister of the V Republic (since 1958) in his eight-month tenure. The planned cuts, including abolishing two public holidays, unpaid leave for public servants when ill, and freezing social benefits and pensions, have contributed to this decline in public favour.

In an effort to streamline the state apparatus, the government plans to not replace departing civil servants and abolish "unproductive" agencies. However, these measures have only served to fuel the growing discontent among the French public.

The government's decision to increase the military budget by 3.5 billion euros has also sparked controversy, with many questioning the prioritisation of military spending over social welfare.

As the country approaches the significant event of "la rentrée," marking the end of the holiday season and the resumption of normal operations in politics and society, the stage is set for a showdown between the government and the growing movement of Bloquons Tout.

Prime Minister Bayrou has announced that he will ask for a vote of confidence in parliament on the following Monday. Whether this will be enough to quell the rising tide of discontent remains to be seen. The nation watches with bated breath as the drama unfolds.