French protesters chant against inflation and police

Mass protests against inflation and police took place across France for the fifth consecutive Saturday. Around 106,000 people participated in nationwide demonstrations, with 24,000 in Paris. Student unions claimed 200,000 demonstrators, including nearly 100,000 in the capital. Arrests were significantly lower than in previous protests, with 219 people detained nationally, 45 of whom were from Paris.

Protesters called for justice, the resignation of President Emmanuel Macron, or expressed their disdain for the police. The focus of the demonstrations was a new bill in parliament that would grant police greater legal protection when using weapons. Supporters of this bill, including the far-right party led by presidential contender Marine Le Pen, argue it is necessary to avoid officers automatically being suspected of disproportionate force.

Critics warn it would create a "license to kill" and make it harder to hold security forces accountable. Despite the largely peaceful nature of the rallies, tear gas was deployed in Paris, Bordeaux, and Nantes after some protesters shot fireworks. Police intervention was required in Lyon to protect television reporters. Unions called for a new day of strikes after rejecting a government promise to increase the minimum wage by just 0.6 percent.