Latest figures show domestic violence still major problem in France
French authorities recorded 285,000 victims of domestic violence in 2025, mostly women, representing a 5 percent increase in a year. It comes as lawmakers debate a new law against sexual and gender-based violence that is due to be finalised at the beginning of 2027.
Nationwide demonstrations in France continued on Thursday, with approximately 575,000 participants according to government estimates. The demonstrations were largely peaceful, although there were some clashes with police in cities like Paris and Lyon. Public sector workers staged a one-day strike, renewing their challenge to President Emmanuel Macron.
The Interior Ministry reported 575,000 attendees, while a union organizer claimed the figure was closer to 1.6 million. The protests have expanded beyond student demands for better education conditions, involving trade unions and Yellow Vest protesters. High-profile politicians, including presidential candidates Jean-Luc Mélenchon and Raphaël Glucksmann, joined the demonstrations.
The unrest stems from issues such as the high cost of living, public services, and education, marking the worst civil unrest in France in years. Prior to the presidential election, Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu prepared to meet with workers and employers to discuss the cost of living and salaries. The strike disrupted operations at schools, universities, railways, and hospitals, with around 15% of teaching staff participating. Police deployed 70,000 personnel nationwide, resulting in 53 injuries and over 448 arrests.
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