Nearly 600,000 people gathered in France to protest against rising costs and declining public services, marking the largest demonstration since protests began in September. While the government plans to hold wage discussions with unions and businesses, protesters intend to continue their rallies until next year's presidential election.
According to the French Interior Ministry, as of 5 p.m. local time on November 5, over 600,000 people participated in protests across the country, including Paris, Lyon, Marseille, and Nantes. CNN reported that the government estimated participation at approximately 575,000. This turnout surpasses previous weekend protests, which drew 550,000, 410,000, and 320,000 participants. The General Confederation of Labor (CGT), the organizing body, claimed that 1.6 million people took part, describing it as an unprecedented level since 2023.
The impact of strikes was significant, with about 16% of teachers reportedly participating, according to the Ministry of Education. The Eiffel Tower and Arc de Triomphe were temporarily closed, and some exhibition halls at the Louvre Museum also shut down. Public transportation faced disruptions in various locations.
The protests began with students demanding better school conditions and grew to include unions and the 'Yellow Vests' movement. CNN noted that concerns over living costs, wealth inequality, and government inaction have united these groups.
In a joint statement, unions criticized the rising costs of fuel, food, rent, and electricity while wages and pensions remain stagnant. They are demanding an increase in the minimum wage, currently set at €12.31 (approximately $13.00), with the CGT calling for an immediate 10% raise. CGT Secretary Sophie Binet urged the government to respond quickly, stating that waiting only adds to the bills. The 'Yellow Vests' protesters have also called for the resignation of President Emmanuel Macron.
The protests were largely peaceful, although clashes occurred in cities like Lyon, where vehicles were set ablaze and tear gas was deployed. CNN reported that police arrested a total of 448 individuals. In Toulouse, fireworks were thrown into a high school, causing a fire that prompted evacuations of students and staff. Authorities deployed 70,000 police officers, along with armored vehicles, drones, and helicopters.
Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu announced plans to hold discussions with unions and employer groups regarding living costs and wages on November 9. However, CNN reported that protesters indicated they would continue demonstrations through Christmas and potentially until the presidential election next spring.
With the election six months away, the Macron government is struggling to address financial instability and political divisions. A close aide to President Macron told Reuters that the goal for the coming weeks is to calm public sentiment and start the election under the most peaceful conditions possible.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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