France protests continue as government pledges to address wage and purchasing power concerns

New protests against the high cost of living are planned Saturday in several French cities for a fourth consecutive weekend, as the government seeks to ease a persistent social crisis ahead of Monday's social conference. The demonstrations, framed as "against the high cost of living and for youth," follow major union protests Thursday and aim to maintain pressure on the government. Authorities have deployed heavy security in Paris, where "yellow vest" protesters intend to approach centers of power. Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu has stated the government "hears the expectations expressed on salaries and purchasing power" while acknowledging employers' concerns. The crisis began in September with student protests over the education system's decline, compounded by anger over living costs and President Emmanuel Macron, who leaves office in May.