France Prepares for Fresh Nationwide Protests as Macron Faces Growing Pressure

France is preparing for another wave of nationwide protests and strikes as hundreds of thousands of people are expected to take to the streets over rising living costs, wages, public services and education conditions. Trade unions, including the left-wing CGT, have called for demonstrations, with students also joining the movement. The protests present another major challenge for President Emmanuel Macron, whose government has been facing growing public anger ahead of the presidential election.

Authorities are taking extensive security measures following the October 17 riots, which resulted in looting and damage to shops and public buildings across the country. Around 70,000 police officers are expected to be deployed nationwide, while intelligence estimates suggest between 500,000 and 700,000 people could demonstrate outside Paris. Schools, railways and public transport services are also expected to face disruptions, with teachers, students and energy workers preparing to participate.

Macron held a security meeting ahead of Thursday’s demonstrations as the government seeks to prevent a repeat of the earlier unrest. Although recent protests have largely remained peaceful, political tensions continue to rise as opposition parties use public frustration to challenge government policies. The administration is now focused on restoring stability and maintaining public order in the months leading up to the presidential election.

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