French train lines, public transport, schools and day care centers face disruptions on Tuesday as unions strike to protest President Nicolas Sarkozy's policies on jobs and the economy.
The national train network and the Paris public transport authority have not yet released details on how service will be affected.
Demonstrations are planned in at least 70 cities and towns throughout France, with the largest march scheduled in Paris, the CGT union said.
Unions say that amid the weak economy, Sarkozy's conservative government hasn't offered satisfactory plans on jobs, salaries, purchasing power and working conditions.
Unions also hope to fight government efforts to reform French pensions. Teachers are also protesting job cuts and day care employees are angry about a reorganization plan.