French workers strike, march for ‘dignified wage’

In Paris, France, thousands of striking workers marched through the city on Thursday to protest the rising cost of living, marking a new escalation in demonstrations that have been ongoing for weeks. Police fired tear gas in some areas as violence and vandalism broke out during the protests. Over 270,000 people had already joined the strikes across the country, according to the interior ministry. The demonstrations occurred just days before a major march in Paris scheduled to begin at 2pm.

The strikes are part of a broader movement that began with high school students protesting learning conditions but has since grown into a nationwide demonstration against inequality and the cost of living. CGT union leader Sophie Binet urged demonstrators not just to fight for a win, but to win "how much" they could. Unions are demanding wage increases, tax reforms, and improved learning conditions for young people.

While the majority of the marches remained peaceful, clashes between protesters and police erupted in some cities, including Lyon, where a vehicle was burned and tear gas was deployed. Winegrower Martin Thiberge participated in the Lyon protest, expressing his desire for a dignified wage. In Marseille, social worker Lea expressed her frustration with the constant need to budget carefully, stating that the social movement had provided her with hope.

Schools across the country were also affected, with 81 out of 3,700 high schools experiencing blockades. The government reported that around 16% of teachers nationwide were on strike. Police used tear gas to prevent students from blocking access to a high school in Paris, but the protests remained largely peaceful overall. Interior Minister Laurent Nunez announced that 70,000 police officers and security forces would be deployed across the country, vowing a firm response to any acts of violence or disorder.

However, the protests' peaceful nature and the criticism of police tactics have been subjects of debate.