Major strikes have been launched by French unions over Nicolas Sarkozy's plans to raise the retirement age by two years.

More than 200 street demonstrations will take place throughout France during the one-day movement, causing chaos for travelers and commuters.

Unions say the government is attacking one of France's most cherished social protections - though a retirement age of 62 would still be among the lowest in Europe.

Labour minister Eric Woerth has said the government will press ahead with the reform no matter how strong the protest turnout is.