Around 575,000 people took part in protests in France

Around 575,000 people took part in protests across France on Thursday, according to CNN.

According to the broadcaster, this was the largest day of protests since the wave of unrest that began in September. The demonstrations coincided with a nationwide strike that had been announced.

The protests passed relatively calmly, although local clashes took place in various cities across France.

Some employees announced strikes, as a result of which staff shortages arose in schools, universities, railways and, to a lesser extent, hospitals.

The process was initially started by students in schools demanding better conditions. Later it turned into a movement in which trade unions and participants of the "Yellow Vests" movement also joined.

Each group has its own demands, but they are united by common discontent: rising cost of living, government inaction, growing wealth inequality and the need for social and political change.