Thousands protest across France as Macron faces fresh pressure

France witnessed thousands of protesters rallying against the government on Saturday, marking the fourth consecutive weekend of demonstrations. The protests have gained momentum as the country heads towards presidential elections in five months, with the far right eyeing its best chance to seize power. Authorities anticipated around 170,000 participants nationwide, with 60,000 in Paris; however, the interior ministry reported only 7,000 people protesting early in the day, a decline compared to the same time last week.

The unrest was triggered by mass protests by unions and strikes on Thursday, including a vow of more walk-outs next week from teaching unions. Approximately 70,000 security forces personnel were stationed across the nation to manage the demonstrations, which have become increasingly violent. Protests erupted in Lyon when police deployed tear gas to disperse several hundred unauthorized protesters blocking a road.

Critics argue that the police response has been heavy-handed, leading to internal investigations into allegations of brutality against demonstrators. Shops in Paris and other cities have barricaded windows and closed due to potential ransacking. Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu is set to meet with unions and employer federation representatives on Monday to discuss wages and purchasing power.

Meanwhile, student and teacher groups have called for a new strike on Tuesday, asserting they are in a position of strength while the government appears weakened and yielding. Polls indicate that far-right candidate Marine Le Pen is the frontrunner for the 2027 Elysee Palace presidency, with Jean-Luc Melenchon, a hard-left leader, as her main rival.