As France erupts, Europe's far right gains from fuel-price anger ahead of elections
THE tractors rolling into the town of Gela on the southern tip of Europe are flying the Sicilian flag, emblazoned with Medusa, three bent legs and ears of wheat, a reminder of the island’s role as a breadbasket since Roman times.
Tractors bearing the Sicilian flag bearing Medusa, wheat ears and three legs rolled into Gela, Sicily as farmers took to the streets. Soaring fuel prices left households and businesses across Europe struggling. Europe's far-right parties gained from the cost-of-living pressures. The US-Iran war elevated energy prices. Unrest erupted across France, Italy and Poland ahead of elections.
Shops were looted, buildings burned and a 19th-century town hall torched. French President Emmanuel Macron acknowledged the legitimate grievances but condemned violences. In Italy, protesters clashed with police over poor public services and ballooning living costs. In Spain, a 87-year-old woman was evicted sparking nationwide protests.
Belgium saw demonstrations while Albania saw rallies driven by corruption and lack of job prospects. Economists say worries about purchasing power are driving populist politics.
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