Medical students in France plan strike

Medical students in France, represented by the National Association of Medical Students (Anemf), have announced an unlimited national strike starting on October 20, 2026. This decision follows the end of written exams for the second cycle of the national dematerialized exams (EDN) on October 15 and aims to join broader student and high school mobilization efforts.

Strike targets staffing and facilities

The strike is a response to a severe shortage of teachers, especially in general medicine, and demands better supervision and the renovation of outdated facilities. Anemf argues that these issues are critical to ensuring dignified study conditions for all medical students.

Concerns over health funding bill

Anemf is also monitoring the PLFSS 2027 bill, which funds the Social Security Fund. The union finds the bill unacceptable, particularly because it proposes only a 2% increase in the National Objective of Health Insurance Expenditures (Ondam) compared to 2026. This, they argue, may lead to health spending overspending and more austere health policies.

Isni remains cautious

The National Inter-Union of Interns (Isni) is watching the situation closely but has not yet decided to join the strike. While Isni shares Anemf’s concerns about staffing and funding, it has not called for participation in the unlimited national strike movement, indicating a more cautious stance.