France is preparing for a nationwide strike and mass demonstrations on Thursday as President Emmanuel Macron remains determined to push through his controversial pension reform. Despite protests against the proposed legislation, which includes raising the retirement age to 64, since January, Macron has refused to back down.

Labor unions have organized the ninth nationwide day of action, with hundreds of thousands of people expected to participate. Unions have accused Macron of ignoring the widespread anger towards the reform and have labeled his response as "scorn" and "lies."

Philippe Martinez, the leader of the hardline CGT union, stated that "the best response we can give the president is that there are millions of people on strike and in the streets."

The strike will result in significant disruptions, particularly in the transportation sector, with airports and train services being severely affected. Teachers and other professionals, including garbage collectors and oil depot workers, will also be walking off the job.