Hundreds of thousands joined nationwide strikes and marches across France
Hundreds of thousands joined strikes and marches across France on Thursday, demanding higher wages and better public services. The Interior Ministry reported more than 600,000 demonstrators nationwide. Reuters said marches were largely peaceful, despite clashes with police in Paris and Lyon. Al Jazeera said about a third of high schools were closed or unable to operate.
More context
Hundreds of thousands of people joined nationwide strikes and marches in France on Thursday, demanding higher wages and better public services amid more than a month of recurring protests over the cost of living. France’s Interior Ministry said more than 600,000 people rallied nationwide, The Korea Times reported. The CGT union put participation at more than 250,000 across 73 cities by afternoon, according to The Hindu. Five unions joined forces across public and private sectors, while unions said about 260 rallies were planned. Major demonstrations took place in Paris, Lyon and Marseille. Reuters described the marches as largely peaceful, although clashes with police occurred in Paris and Lyon. Al Jazeera reported that about a third of France’s high schools were closed or unable to operate because of student blockades or teacher walkouts.
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Reporting
- Reuters — Largely peaceful marches take place across France as workers stage strike
- Los Angeles Times — French unions join forces for nationwide strikes, increasing pressure on Macron’s government - Los Angeles Times
- Al Jazeera — Photos: Thousands rally in France over rising costs and economic struggles | Protests News | Al Jazeera
- Al Jazeera — Workers strike across France, hundreds of thousands expected to protest | Protests News | Al Jazeera
- BBC News — France gears up for strikes and protests as unions promise national mobilisation
- The Hindu — France workers strike, march for 'dignified wage' - The Hindu
- China Daily — French police clash with protesters in Lyon on day of nationwide rallies, strike - Chinadaily.com.cn
- The Korea Times — More than 600,000 rally across France to demand higher wages and school funding
Verifier’s note
Al Jazeera, The Hindu, China Daily, the Los Angeles Times, the BBC, Korea Times, and Reuters all report nationwide French protests or strikes on November 5 over wages and living costs, with students also joining. Their crowd estimates differ, but the results describe the same event and do not overturn its central claims.