French unions report 1.6 million protesters nationwide in wage protest

French unions reported nearly 1.6 million protesters nationwide on Thursday, including 350,000 in Paris, during a mass mobilization over wages and purchasing power. Police deployed 70,000 officers amid scattered incidents, including tear gas and charges on the Boulevard Voltaire. The CGT counted over 250,000 protesters in 73 cities by 1 p.m., with leaders calling the turnout a success and warning that only a response to demands would end the movement. CFDT head Marylise Léon urged Smic increases and swift negotiations, while authorities estimated 500,000 to 700,000 demonstrators outside Paris. The protest drew students, gilets jaunes, and farmers, with hundreds of schools blocked and 16% of teachers on strike. Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu announced a social conference for Monday, as unions demand Smic revaluation, higher wages, and fiscal justice.