France, Sept. 18 -- France is bracing on Thursday for its biggest strikes and demonstrations in two years as unions rally workers across all sectors to protest what they call "brutal" cuts looming in the 2026 budget. RFI explains what's behind the day of disruption.

Public transport is expected to be worst affected, especially in and around Paris. Unions have warned as many as 90 percent of the capital's Metro drivers could join the strike.

Other workers, from teachers to truck drivers to pharmacists, are also set to walk out, as unions issue a cross-sector call to mobilise for the first time since their 2023 battle over thepension reform.

Authorities predict more than 800,000 people will demonstrate around the country, an Interior Min...