French unions call new protests and nationwide strike for late October and November

French protest movements and unions have called for new mass demonstrations on October 31 and a nationwide strike on November 5, aiming to pressure President Emmanuel Macron's government over demands related to wages, the cost of living, and public services. According to the Interior Ministry, 410,000 people participated in nationwide actions on October 24, with 70,000 police mobilized; 1,314 people were detained and about 50 officers injured. Solidaires co-chair Murielle Gilbert said discontent is growing, uniting students, workers, firefighters, and others, while the "Yellow Vests" movement also plans sit-ins outside municipal buildings and the National Assembly. Reuters notes France's strained finances limit Macron's ability to meet demands, with his term ending in April 2027 and no parliamentary majority. Government talks with unions and students are ongoing, but organizers deem proposed measures insufficient, while similar anti-government protests have also occurred in Belgium, Italy, and Albania.