Clashes erupt in Paris after new French protests
Thousands of people protested across France on Saturday in a new show of anger against the government, with clashes erupting between police and some protesters in Paris despite a lower turnout than in previous weeks. The protests marked the fourth consecutive weekend of demonstrations against the rising cost of living, which have erupted as the country heads to presidential elections in five…
Clashes broke out in Paris following new protests in France over the weekend, despite a smaller turnout compared to previous weeks. The demonstrations, marking the fourth consecutive weekend of unrest, were against the increasing cost of living and the approaching presidential elections in five months, where the far right party had a high chance of winning.
Approximately 146,000 people participated in demonstrations across France, with 46,000 in Paris, according to the interior ministry. Union estimates were higher, reporting 250,000 protesters nationwide, including 75,000 in the capital. Tear gas was deployed by police against individuals throwing projectiles and fireworks during the protests, as a group of 200 violent individuals attacked officers while arresting a man who had set a trash bin on fire.
Some 70,000 security personnel were deployed on Saturday, following violent riots in October. The Yellow Vests movement, which had previously protested against Emmanuel Macron, organized a rival demonstration at Place de la Concorde in central Paris, banned by authorities. Police prevented protesters from approaching. In Lyon, tear gas was used to disperse several hundred unauthorized gatherers blocking a road.
Student protesters emphasized the need for government responsiveness, with Sabine Kharbach, spokeswoman of the Student Union, stating, "Today is a date that helps keep the pressure on." The police response faced criticism for heavy-handedness, leading to internal investigations into alleged brutality against demonstrators. Local businesses reported a decline in customers due to security measures, while the government faces challenges in addressing France's massive debt.
Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu is set to meet unions and employer representatives on Monday to discuss wages and purchasing power. Student and teacher groups have called for a new strike on Tuesday, asserting their strength and the government's weakness. Polls suggest far-right candidate Marine Le Pen is favored to win the next presidential election in 2027.
Written by urgent.news from Dawn's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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