French public sector workers strike over pay as authorities deploy police

Trade unions in France called a nationwide strike on Thursday, with hundreds of thousands of people expected to march in French cities alongside protesting students. Public workers from the education sector, rail services, public hospitals, and postal services are taking part in the mobilization. DW reported that the strike was organized by trade unions seeking higher wages for workers. [1][4]

French authorities have deployed around 70,000 police and security officers across the nation to manage the demonstrations. Interior Minister Laurent Nunez announced the security deployment ahead of the rallies on Thursday. DW reported on the deployment as authorities prepare for widespread marches in urban centers. [1]

The latest protest follows earlier demonstrations over education and the rising cost of living on October 17, which triggered severe rioting across the country. As FTMQ News reported earlier, the current demonstrations take place five months before the French presidential election, with President Emmanuel Macron seeking to avoid a return of widespread civil unrest. [1][4]

France encompasses Metropolitan France in Western Europe alongside several overseas departments and territories. Its population reached 68.6 million people in January 2025, while the capital city of Paris serves as a major hub for diplomacy and commerce. [3]