France gears up for strikes and protests as unions promise national mobilisation
According to the BBC, hundreds of thousands of protesters are participating in demonstrations across France organised by five major unions. The protests, which began in September with student demands, have now expanded to include workers and the 'yellow-vest' movement. Authorities expect between 500,000 and 700,000 participants. French Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez announced the deployment of 70,000 police and gendarmes, warning of a firm response to any violence. Unions are demanding higher minimum wages and protected public services. Meanwhile, disruptions have been reported in schools, hospitals, public transport, and nuclear power plants.