French unions and protest groups have called for another nationwide demonstration on October 31 and a national strike on November 5, seeking to keep pressure on the government after large rallies over education, living costs and public services.
The Interior Ministry said 410,000 people took part in demonstrations across France on Saturday, while the CGT union put the turnout at nearly 800,000. Authorities deployed about 70,000 police officers. The ministry reported 1,314 arrests, roughly half the number recorded during the previous weekend’s unrest.
The protests began with students demanding more teachers, better-maintained school buildings and improved classroom conditions. They have since drawn in workers, parents and unions, with anger widening to include wages, inflation, public services and the handling of demonstrations by police.
Saturday’s marches were largely peaceful, although clashes and isolated incidents were reported in several cities. The extensive security operation helped limit the scale of disorder compared with the previous weekend, when looting and vandalism affected a number of urban areas.
Union leaders say the planned rallies and strike are intended to show that the discontent extends beyond schools. The government has held talks with student and union representatives, but the discussions have not resolved the main demands. The new dates will test whether the protest movement can maintain its momentum into November.
