Hundreds of thousands of people across France took to the streets to denounce President Nicolas Sarkozy’s handling of the economic crisis.

The protests, which polls show are backed by three quarters of the French public, reflect growing disillusionment with Sarkozy’s pledges of reform.

French protests

Marseille, Thursday March 19

Protesters thronged the streets of Marseille as French trade unions staged a national strike sending a powerful message of protest against President Nicolas Sarkozy's economic policy and reform programme.

Marseille, Thursday March 19

Workers from American microelectronics group Atmel protest during France's second nationwide strike in two months, to demand a boost to wages and greater protection form the worsening economy.

Compiègne, Thursday March 19

Workers from the Continental car parts and tyre factory in Compiègne, northern France, led a demonstration of 10,000 people through the streets of the town. Continental AG announced it would stop producing tyres at the plant and reduce capacity at other sites in Europe, laying off workers as a result.

Compiegne, Thursday March 19

Plumes of smoke rise from burning barrels at an angry protest by striking workers from the Continental car parts plant in Compiegne, Northern France

Thursday, March 19

Continental employees burn tyres during a demonstration in Compiegne, north of Paris. The German car parts maker wants to end production at the plant early next year, underscoring the depth of the slump in the global car and truck industries.

Nice, Thursday, March 19

Workers from Air France hold inflatable aeroplanes and flags during a protest march in Nice.

Marseille, Thursday March 19

Protesters take to the streets in the port city of Marseille, southern France.

Paris, Thursday March 19

A commuter waits in a train at Paris Saint Lazare station. Rail traffic was disrupted throughout France.

Paris, Thursday March 19

Commuters struggle to get to work in Paris. The one-day stoppage caused disruption to rail, air and local transport and to public services, especially schools.