French protests over inflation and education spark clashes, general strike set for November 5

France faced nationwide protests on October 24 with over 400,000 demonstrators, leading to violent clashes in some areas. Unions have called for further rallies on October 31 and a general strike on November 5 to pressure President Emmanuel Macron's government amid financial and political crises. The Interior Ministry reported approximately 410,000 protesters across 289 events, while organizers claimed 800,000. Authorities deployed 70,000 police, helicopters, and armored vehicles, arresting 1,314 people and injuring about 50 officers. Clashes in Paris, Marseille, and Lyon involved projectiles, tear gas, and fires. September energy prices rose 21.3 percent year-on-year, pushing inflation to 3.1 percent. Macron's centrist party lacks a parliamentary majority, and strained public finances limit his response options. Similar unrest over inflation and living costs has spread across Europe, including Belgium, Italy, Albania, Spain, and Portugal.