'Beyond the cost of living, what was at stake on October 17 was the unraveling of our democracy'

The protests in France on October 17 saw 550,000 participants, surpassing previous Yellow Vest demonstrations. The movement, sparked by rising fuel prices, gained momentum from reports of police violence against students. Many now view the protests as a broader fight for democracy and against the rising cost of living. Participants expressed feelings of disrespect and a loss of power in the political system, emphasizing the need for unity among various social causes.