French protests draw over 600,000 as workers and students demand higher wages

Massive protests swept France on Thursday, with over 600,000 people marching nationwide to demand higher wages and support student movements, according to the Interior Ministry, while unions reported nearly 1.6 million participants across 200 demonstrations. The Paris march proceeded peacefully, drawing students, workers, and retirees, though authorities reported violence in cities like Rennes and Lyon, arresting at least 448 people. About a third of high schools were disrupted, and the Eiffel Tower closed as unions vowed to continue until demands are met. The movement began in September over school staffing shortages and expanded to broader economic grievances, with France facing recession risks and soaring costs. It comes as the presidential campaign heats up, with far-right candidate Marine Le Pen leading polls to succeed Emmanuel Macron.