France's largest strike of the year: 575,000 to 1.6 million protest rising costs

France held its largest general strike of the year on November 5, with between 575,000 and 1.6 million people protesting the rising cost of living. Unions are demanding wage increases to restore purchasing power, and the government has promised a response. The strike, the first joint mobilization of public and private sector workers this school year, saw students, farmers, and "yellow vests" join unions in over 250 cities. While largely peaceful, incidents occurred, including a school fire near Toulouse and 448 arrests nationwide. The government is facing pressure from financial markets amid high debt, but has announced a possible minimum wage measure and a "social conference" for Monday. A survey shows half of French people struggle to make ends meet.