Student and cost-of-living protests spread from France across the EU

▲ Escalating

Cost-of-living protests spread from France across several European countries

Protests that began in France over school conditions and teacher shortages have widened into discontent over living costs, housing and public services, and are now reported in several European countries. On Thursday, trade unions went on strike and demonstrations continued across France. In Lyon, riot police fired tear gas and charged protesters during rallies tied to a public workers' strike.

• More than 220 demonstrations were expected across France on Thursday.
• Unions called a national strike expected to include hospital workers, air traffic control, post office, teachers and rail staff.
• Hundreds of thousands were expected to march.
• The rallies renew pressure on President Macron after weeks of unrest.