Twenty seven policemen were injured yesterday when protests by pro-independence activists turned violent in the French overseas territory of New Caledonia. Our Observers in the capital of Nouméa describe the chaos. Read more and see the pictures...

Last July, Sarkozy passed a law that meant public services are forced to keep a minimum service going during strikes. "These days when there's a strike in France, nobody notices" said the French President. It was not, however, the case on Thursday. Our Observers who took part give us their accounts.

In these modern times, it's a lift that takes you from one rung of the social ladder to the next. And in France, the lift is out of order. This is the scenario for a new French comedy, produced by a trade union. Seven colleagues, all desperate to get to the next level, but stuck in the lift. It's certainly funny, but will it attract people to get involved in unions? Read more and watch the clips...

Refused in South Africa and turned away from Mozambique, 77 tons of weaponry bound for Zimbabwe are now heading towards Angola in hope of access to land. Will the Chinese vessel succeed in reaching its final destination? Unions, lawyers and anti-arms activists hope not. Read more...

The French National Union of Students (UNEF) has launched a forceful campaign demanding that university housing be built. Students tell us about their struggles to find a home in Paris. Read more…

"Some people seem to think there aren't any housing problems for students in Paris... Damien and Mélanie, 22 and 23, both live with their parents."