PARIS — French authorities deployed 70,000 police and security forces on Thursday as hundreds of thousands of demonstrators took to the streets across the country in a nationwide strike and protest movement.
Key developments:
- Authorities estimate 500,000 to 700,000 protesters participated in marches, with 80,000 in Paris alone, according to multiple sources.
- Five major unions joined forces with student groups, calling for higher wages, tax reforms, and improved education conditions.
Immediate impact
The mobilization disrupted public services, with more than 250 separate actions reported nationwide. 17.5% of public primary school teachers were on strike, while unions warned of disruptions to rail and public transport. Oil refineries halted production, and France was expected to import more electricity than it produced due to nuclear plant disruptions.
Security measures
Interior Minister Laurent Nunez announced the deployment of armored vehicles, drones, and helicopters to respond to potential unrest. Nunez vowed an “extremely firm response” to any violence or disorder, following riots on October 17 that caused widespread damage.
Demands and grievances
The protests originated in September with high school students protesting poor learning conditions but expanded to include workers and the broader “yellow vest” movement. Unions cited soaring costs of fuel, food, rent, gas, and electricity alongside stagnant wages and pensions. Their demands include:
- A rise in the minimum wage (Smic), currently €12.31 per hour.
- Across-the-board wage increases.
- Tax reforms to address inequality.
Official responses
President Emmanuel Macron’s government defended police tactics while acknowledging concerns over heavy-handed enforcement. A government spokeswoman stated authorities were “extremely vigilant” to prevent a repeat of October’s unrest. The U.S. Embassy issued a security alert for Americans in France ahead of the demonstrations.
Background and context
The movement reflects broader economic strain in France, which has struggled with debt and slow growth compared to other European nations. Unions warned the country was “on the brink of recession”, with layoff plans increasing. The protests have dominated political discourse five months before the presidential election, where far-right leader Marine Le Pen currently leads polls.
Incidents reported
Clashes between protesters and police were reported in Lyon, Rennes, and Marseille, including the use of tear gas and water cannons. In Rennes, authorities cited “masked individuals” blocking roads and throwing steel balls at police. A high school near Toulouse was set on fire, and barricades were erected in Marseille.
Student involvement
Students remain a central force, with many citing fear of police violence as a deterrent to participation. A 19-year-old Paris student told media that mobilization efforts were ongoing despite concerns about safety.