French Unions Rally Hundreds of Thousands for Higher Wages

Hundreds of thousands of people demonstrated in France for higher wages and an increase in the minimum wage during a national strike and protest day called by unions. The Interior Ministry reported over 600,000 participants nationwide, while clashes occurred in several cities. In Paris, police used tear gas after some demonstrators confronted them, and radical groups attacked officers with projectiles in cities like Rennes, Marseille, and Lyon, leading to 448 arrests and 86 arson incidents. The protests continue weeks of social unrest led by students and the Yellow Vests movement, with unions now joining to demand wage increases. Union leader Marylise Léon called for a 100-euro monthly minimum wage hike, citing rising costs for fuel, food, and rent.