French doctors launch nationwide strike as Louvre staff renew walkout

Doctors in community practices and private clinics across France began a nationwide 10-day strike on Monday over the government’s proposed 2026 Social Security budget, while staff at the Louvre Museum separately voted to resume strike action over working conditions.

Medical unions said the doctors’ action reflects deep concern that the draft budget does not match rising healthcare demands and introduces measures they believe undermine professional independence. The strike is expected to continue until Jan. 15 and has drawn support from practitioner groups, coordinating bodies and medical students.

Franck Devulder, head of the French Confederation of Medical Trade Unions (CSMF), said participation was higher than anticipated, estimating that more than 85% of doctors had joined the action. He acknowledged that the strike would increase pressure on hospitals and disrupt patients’ access to care but said unions viewed it as unavoidable.

Doctors have criticised provisions that expand controls on sick-leave prescriptions and allow public authorities to impose fee reductions for certain medical procedures without prior consultation. Unions argue that such measures weaken social dialogue and fail to address staffing shortages and growing patient needs.

In a separate development, employees at the Louvre Museum unanimously voted to restart strike action, citing unresolved concerns over working conditions, unions said. As a result, the museum remained only partially open to the public.

Union representatives said about 350 staff members from operational, conservation and support roles attended a general assembly at the museum, organised by an inter-union grouping led by CFDT, CGT and Sud. They said negotiations with the Culture Ministry had not produced meaningful progress.

The Louvre’s management confirmed that visitor access was limited to a restricted route showcasing major works, including the Mona Lisa, the Venus de Milo and the Winged Victory of Samothrace.

The museum’s strike had begun in mid-December before being temporarily suspended. Unions said the decision to resume the action followed the start of the new working period and ongoing dissatisfaction with talks.

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