France gears up for strikes and protests as unions promise national mobilisation
Hundreds of thousands of demonstrators are expected to take part in marches across France as five unions join strikes and protests in a national day of action.
France is bracing for a nationwide day of strikes and protests as five unions unite for a national mobilization on Thursday, November 5. The action follows a series of demonstrations initiated by high school students over education issues, which have since expanded to include the "yellow vest" movement and various workers. Authorities anticipate between 500,000 and 700,000 demonstrators, with an estimated 250 separate actions planned across the country.
Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez has deployed 70,000 police and gendarmes, warning of a strong response to any potential violence. The unions are demanding higher wages to counteract the rising cost of living and protection of essential services. The government has responded by lowering fuel costs through strategic reserves and promising reforms to the university admissions process.
Despite some criticism over restricted protest routes, union leaders remain optimistic, with one head urging a "great day of convergence" and hoping for at least 800,000 participants.
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