575,000 protesters march across France in largest day of demonstrations since September

About 575,000 protesters marched across France on Thursday in the largest single day of demonstrations since unrest began in September, according to government estimates. The day passed relatively peacefully despite localized clashes in several cities. Workers strikes disrupted schools, universities, and some train services, though hospital staffing was minimally affected. Protesters, including unions, students, and Yellow Vests, demand higher wages, increased education funding, and political change, united by discontent over the cost of living and government inaction. Police detained 448 people amid clashes with radical activists in cities like Lyon and Rennes. Protesters plan to continue demonstrations until Christmas and possibly into next spring's presidential elections, with similar strikes scheduled later this month across Europe.