France, Nov. 14 -- Since late September, hundreds of thousands of people have taken to the streets across France to protest against the high cost of living, deteriorating public services and what many see as government inertia.

The protests began with a movement by high school pupils, which has grown to encompass a broader mobilisation against the rising cost of living that has drawn in university students, public sector workers and trade unions.

The demonstrations have unfolded against a backdrop of violence - by some protesters and by police against demonstrators, notably young students.

"The repression has given students reasons to protest. Some people initially said, 'Oh, come on, another student demonstration. They're spoiled kids...