France faces growing wave of protests and strikes
France is experiencing significant social unrest, with approximately 400 protests scheduled for October 31 following previous demonstrations on October 24, which drew between 410,000 and 800,000 participants according to conflicting estimates. The "Yellow Vests" coordination has also planned rallies at the National Assembly for October 30. Furthermore, five major unions have called for a national strike on November 5, advocating for wage increases and the protection of public services, while encouraging students and retirees to participate. The protest calendar extends into late autumn, with retirees planning action on November 19 regarding inflation-adjusted pensions, and firefighters scheduled to demonstrate on December 4 over working conditions. Authorities remain concerned about a long period of social tension despite significant security deployments.