About 575,000 protesters participated in demonstrations across France on Thursday, according to government estimates, marking the biggest single day of protests since a wave of unrest began in September to coincide with a nationwide strike, CNN reports.
Despite the scale of these protests, and the violence which marred similar marches on October 17, the day passed relatively peacefully, albeit with some localized clashes in cities across France.
Some workers went on strike too, depleting some schools, universities, railways and, to a lesser extent, hospitals of their staff.
The diverse nature of sectors involved reflects just how many groups are now participating in these protests, which have expanded from students demanding better conditions in schools to a movement that has drawn in trade unions and Yellow Vest protesters.
Each group has its own concerns, though they are united by widespread discontent over the cost of living, perceived government inaction, a growing wealth divide and a deep desire for social and political change.
