European protests over living costs draw 1,314 arrests in France; unions call for October 31 rally

Protests across multiple European countries on October 24 drew hundreds of thousands over living costs and public services, with 1,314 arrests in France alone. French unions have called for another demonstration on October 31. In France, 289 rallies drew about 410,000 people nationwide, including 110,000 in Paris, according to the interior ministry, though unions claim higher figures. Violence in Paris, Marseille, and Strasbourg led to property damage, with 53 police injured and 500 people attempting attacks in Paris. The "Solidaires" union, backed by SUD Education, has called for Saturday's rally, with CGT deciding this week and "Yellow Vests" urging support. Protests also occurred in Italy, where 371 were detained, and Portugal, where 31 were held after clashes in Lisbon.