The expression of dissatisfaction degenerated on several occasions in violent situations, with clashes between masked persons and riot police, and with tear gas and the destruction of store premises. Demonstrators have, according to previous opinion polls, enjoyed the support of a majority of the French, but the support has declined the longer the strike went on.
SVT's European correspondent Christoffer Wendick has been present during the demonstrations and met Lydia Roult, who believes that the reform must be withdrawn.
- We will block the whole country, this is the last resort, she says.
See Christoffer Wendick meet protesters in Paris in the clip above