Nearly 600,000 people participated in demonstrations across France on Thursday, according to a provisional estimate from the Interior Ministry. BFMTV reported that this figure represents the largest turnout since the protest movement started, surpassing previous counts of 550,000 on October 17, 410,000 on October 24, and 320,000 on October 31.
The General Confederation of Labour (CGT) trade union confederation disputed the government's figures, claiming nearly 1.6 million protesters took part nationwide. The CGT also stated that 350,000 people participated in the march in Paris between Place de la Republique and Place de la Nation.
Tens of thousands of trade union members joined strikes and demonstrations to demand higher wages and support a growing high school protest movement. These actions were intended to pressure the government of President Macron. According to the Education Ministry, nearly 16% of teachers were on strike on Thursday as the country faced protests over purchasing power, public services, and wages.
Sophie Binet, Secretary-General of the CGT, described the strike as “extremely effective” during the Paris demonstration. She urged the government to respond to worker demands, stating, “Nothing will stop us,” and called for a 10% rise in the minimum wage and wage increases for all workers.
The nationwide strike caused significant disruptions to schools and universities. The Higher Education Ministry reported that 60 out of 184 institutions were disrupted, while the SNES-FSU union reported that 52% of middle and high school staff participated in the strike.
Local media reported that police intervened against student blockades in several cities, including Bordeaux and Paris. These protests are linked to a student movement that began in mid-September regarding staffing, funding, and education conditions.
In response to the unrest, a government statement announced that Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu will hold a “social conference” with employers’ organisations and trade unions at Matignon on Monday, November 9.






