Public-sector workers staged about 170 demonstrations across France, bringing teachers, firefighters, hospital employees and local-government staff into the streets. The Interior Ministry counted roughly 206,000 participants, while trade unions put nationwide turnout closer to 300,000.

Protesters say wage freezes and rising living costs are eroding household finances as understaffing places heavier demands on essential services. Unions are pressing the government for higher pay, additional recruitment and stronger investment in public institutions.

At the same time, disruption has affected schools amid complaints about crowded classrooms, teacher shortages and deteriorating buildings. Clashes, arrests and injuries involving protesters and police have been reported, though a comprehensive official breakdown was not immediately available.

The parallel movements point to a broader loss of confidence in the state’s ability to protect living standards and maintain public services. Whether the unrest expands will depend partly on the government’s response and the unions’ capacity to sustain nationwide action.