France faces new protests as Macron seeks to prevent repeat of October unrest

France braces for fresh protests as President Macron aims to avert a repeat of October's civil unrest. Hundreds of thousands are set to take to the streets on Thursday, with unions and student groups calling for action over living costs, public services and education. This marks another challenge for Macron following weeks of unrest that have shaken his administration and dominated the political discourse as the nation approaches a presidential election five months away.

The nationwide mobilisation, backed by the CGT and student groups, urges citizens to "turn up in big numbers on the streets today," according to CGT head Sophie Binet. Authorities have attempted to ease tensions following the October 17 riots and looting, which overwhelmed security forces and left damage in their wake, sparking criticism of Macron's crisis management.

Police forces nationwide are reportedly preparing to deploy around 70,000 officers, while the domestic intelligence service anticipates 500,000 to 700,000 demonstrators outside Paris alone. The Education Ministry revealed that 17.5 percent of public primary schools have already faced disruptions due to the ongoing protests.