Enormous — and at times destructive — public demonstrations in France have significance reaching well beyond that historically turbulent nation. Protests began in September, spurred by deteriorating conditions in the education system. More than 500 schools have been blockaded and clashes with police have escalated to violence. In 2023, similar protests resulted from efforts by President Emmanuel Macron to increase the full retirement age in France. The initiative to raise the retirement age from 62 to 64 was successful but faces continuing opposition and pushback. The lower house was bypassed in the retirement reform. Macron has relied heavily on executive power rather than parliament. The constitution of the Fifth Republic, instituted by President Charles de Gaulle, defines a powerful chief executive. The massive displays of public hostility have added importance, given the central role of France in the European Union and the continuing war in Ukraine. Protestors set fire to trash bins in Paris. There has been sporadic fighting with police. Separate from the pension protests, protes