Workers across France staged nationwide strikes and demonstrations on Thursday, November 5, demanding higher wages, improved living conditions and action against rising inequality.

More than 250,000 people participated in protests across 73 cities by the afternoon, according to the major labour union CGT, as nationwide industrial action intensified amid weeks of unrest.

The demonstrations come as France, the eurozone’s second-largest economy, faces mounting pressure to address its finances and growing public discontent ahead of elections to replace President Emmanuel Macron.

The protests have brought together workers, students and other groups angered by rising living costs and inequality.

Workers Demand Better Wages

The unions are calling for wage increases across sectors, tax reforms and improved learning conditions for young people. They have also criticised police restrictions on some demonstrations.

In Clermont-Ferrand, healthcare manager Sylvie Larneury, 61, joined the march alongside her partner, an IT specialist.

“We’re fed up. We’re not starving, but we have to help our children even though they’ve studied,” she said.

Larneury also criticised what she described as social injustice and a government that prioritises its own interests over those of the majority.

In Lyon, winegrower Martin Thiberge said he joined the demonstration to support workers across French society.

“We want to make a living from our work, to make a dignified wage,” he said.

Up to 80,000 people were expected to march in Paris from 2pm. The planned demonstration prompted the Eiffel Tower to close for the day, according to its operators.

School Blockades Disrupt Classes

The nationwide action also affected schools, with student protests and blockades continuing in several cities.

The government reported blockades at 81 of France’s approximately 3,700 high schools. However, a high school student association said classes had been suspended at 1,000 secondary schools, including institutions affected by blockades and strike-related closures.

The education ministry reported that approximately 16 per cent of teachers nationwide were on strike.

In Paris, police used tear gas to prevent students from blocking access to the Hélène-Boucher high school, an AFP reporter said.

Education unions, alongside organisations representing railway workers, public hospital staff and postal workers, also called for strike action.

Police Prepare Firm Response

Interior Minister Laurent Nunez announced on Wednesday that 70,000 police officers and security personnel would be deployed nationwide.

He promised an “extremely firm response” to violence and disorder.

Although the demonstrations have largely been peaceful, some have resulted in clashes with police, who have used tear gas and water cannon to disperse crowds.

An attempted murder investigation was launched after petrol bombs were thrown at security forces in Paris on Saturday.

The police response has attracted criticism, with allegations of excessive force prompting internal investigations. Several teenage protesters have reportedly suffered serious injuries, while thousands have been arrested.

Similar protests have also erupted in Denmark, Germany and Italy in recent weeks.