In France, hundreds of thousands of trade union members joined nationwide strikes and demonstrations today, demanding higher wages and backing a month-long student protest movement.

Major rallies took place in Paris, Lyon, Marseille and other cities. An Interior Ministry official said about 270,000 people had participated in 180 demonstrations outside Paris. Most gatherings were peaceful, although violence was reported in several cities.

Student protests also disrupted education, with about one-third of France’s high schools closed or unable to operate because of blockades and teacher strikes. Public transportation was heavily affected, and the Eiffel Tower was closed.

France’s major unions said rising prices, stagnant wages and growing layoffs were pushing the country toward recession. In a joint statement, they called on the government and employers to address mounting economic and social concerns.

The protests began in September over staff shortages at a high school southeast of Paris before expanding into a nationwide movement. Students are demanding increased education funding, while workers are seeking better pensions, higher wages and relief from rising living costs.