Public sector unions in France are planning a major strike and demonstrations on September 29 to push for higher wages, better working conditions, and more funding for public services. A coalition of eight major unions, including CGT, FO, and CFDT, has criticized the government’s 2027 budget plan, arguing that it could lead to cuts in public services and reduced pay for workers. The unions believe that alternative policies are possible, emphasizing the need for a fairer distribution of wealth and greater social and tax equity. They are urging public sector employees to participate in large-scale strikes and protests on September 29 to demand better pay, stronger public services, and budget decisions that support the sector. This call for action follows the Ministry of Economy’s recent decision to rule out a general salary increase for public sector workers in 2026, citing financial concerns. During a meeting with unions in early July, the ministry proposed targeted changes to salaries and career advancement, but the unions left the session after two hours, frustrated by what they saw as insufficient proposals. The general secretary of the CGT union, Sophie Binet, has reiterated the need for a “major strike for salaries and public services” at a time when the government is finalizing its 2027 budget, despite ongoing economic challenges. One of the unions’ key demands is a significant increase in the value of the index point, a crucial element of public sector pay that has remained frozen for three years. They also want the index grids that determine career progression to be revised so that employees receive meaningful salary increases. Additionally, the unions are calling for increased budgetary resources that align with the needs and responsibilities of public services, which they argue have been underfunded for too long. The planned strike and demonstrations reflect growing dissatisfaction among public sector workers, who feel that their wages and working conditions are not keeping pace with inflation or the demands of their roles. With the government preparing its 2027 budget, the unions are using this moment to push for significant changes in how public sector salaries and funding are managed, hoping to influence policy decisions that could affect millions of workers and citizens.