‘Mass disobedience’: Yellow Vests defy Paris ban as unions and students march over the cost of living

The Yellow Vests movement in France has planned a separate rally in central Paris, despite a ban by authorities, while unions and student groups are organizing an authorized march against the high cost of living. Interior Minister Laurent Nunez has deployed 70,000 police officers and security forces across the country, with the interior ministry stating that the demonstrations have generally gone well but with 642 arrests.

The protests, which have been largely peaceful, come as voters prepare to elect a new president less than six months from now, with the far right leading in opinion polls. The government faces pressure to address wage increases, tax reforms, and purchasing power concerns in light of France's economic challenges.

Brief written by urgent.news from Malay Mail's own syndicated text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.