French citizens split over Saturday protest against rising costs

French citizens are divided over whether to join a nationwide protest scheduled for Saturday, October 17, against the rising cost of living, with unions and youth groups calling for mobilization. The government, anticipating significant turnout, has convened a crisis unit amid fears of a resurgence of the "yellow vests" movement. Supporters of the march cite anger over declining purchasing power, record fuel prices, and inequality, with some expressing solidarity with striking students and workers. They argue that the government has failed to address accumulated social frustration, while critics question the protest's effectiveness, citing concerns about violence, political exploitation, or preferring electoral action instead. The protest follows weeks of youth-led demonstrations and includes calls from various sectors, including farmers, healthcare workers, and retirees. Some participants draw parallels to past movements, while older citizens cite physical limitations or skepticism about street action as reasons for not attending.