French protests spread as students, unions, and 'yellow vests' unite

France braced for nationwide protests Saturday as high school students, trade unions, and "yellow vest" activists planned to unite in demonstrations over education inequality and broader social grievances. The movement began in mid-September at a Paris suburb school over dilapidated buildings, overcrowded classrooms, and teacher shortages, spreading to thousands of schools. Authorities reported over 900 police injured and more than 6,700 minors detained, with critics condemning the government's forceful response. The protests coincide with fiscal pressures, as France's public debt reached 115.6 percent of GDP. Prime Minister Lecornu's 2027 budget proposes spending cuts, including public sector pay freezes, amid a divided parliament ahead of the 2027 presidential election.