French PM Lecornu to meet unions after weekend violence prompts curfews

French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu will meet with five major trade unions on Wednesday to discuss safeguarding the right to demonstrate, following weekend violence and looting that prompted curfews in French cities. Interior Minister Laurent Nunez will join the meeting with CFDT, CGT, FO, CFTC, and CFE-CGC representatives, where Lecornu aims to address union demands on schedules, replacements, building renovations, and Parcoursup, while condemning attempts to divert protests with unacceptable acts. New Yellow Vests and high school student demonstrations are planned for Saturday, with unions scheduling their own for November 5, though CFDT and CGT noted the absence of high school organizations from Wednesday's talks.