Hundreds of thousands of demonstrators are expected to take to the streets in cities across France, while public sector workers are staging a strike in a fresh challenge for President Emmanuel Macron.
The demonstrations follow weeks of unrest that have shaken the government and dominated the political agenda, five months ahead of the presidential elections.
The mobilisation was called by trade unions, including the left-wing CGT, and is backed by student organisations. It follows protests over the cost of living, public services and education, which have triggered France’s biggest political turmoil in years.
“We must take to the streets in large numbers today,” CGT leader Sophie Binet told LCI television.
70,000 police officers to be deployed
French authorities are seeking to ease tensions following the riots and looting on 17 October, when security forces were caught off guard. The incidents caused damage to shops and public buildings across the country and prompted criticism of Macron’s handling of the crisis.
Authorities plan to deploy 70,000 police officers nationwide. The domestic intelligence service expects between 500,000 and 700,000 people to take part in demonstrations outside Paris.
Schools and transport face disruption
The Education Ministry said 17.5% of primary school teachers were expected to join the strike.
Trade unions have also warned of disruption to rail services and public transport.
Students are among those expected to participate in the demonstrations. They say conditions at universities and growing uncertainty about their future remain major concerns.
“We are trying to remain mobilised as much as possible. Some people are not taking part, not because they are afraid. Many are afraid of police violence,” said Irma de Banville, a 19-year-old student in Paris.
The French government has defended police methods while saying that any abuse of power will be investigated.
Also read: Flight makes emergency landing in France following bomb threat
For more videos and updates, check out our YouTube channel
