Paris protests: Students and unions unite in show of strength

On Thursday, November 5, 575,000 people demonstrated across France in 193 marches, according to the Interior Ministry, while the CGT union counted 1.6 million, in a joint call for wage increases and purchasing power protection. The protests marked a convergence of students, high schoolers, and union workers, with young activists expressing joy at the solidarity that strengthened the social movement they began in September. The Interior Ministry's figures contrasted sharply with the CGT's higher estimate. Following three weeks of social unrest, Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu announced a "social conference" for Monday, November 9, at Matignon with unions and employers to address purchasing power and wages. He also tasked Labor Minister Jean-Pierre Farandou with finalizing consultations by Sunday.