France Gripped by Violent Protests Over Cost of Living as More Than 2,000 Arrested
Paris: France has been rocked by widespread protests over the rising cost of living, deteriorating public services and cuts in public spending, with demonstrations turning violent in several cities. More than 2,000 people have been arrested, while over 600 people, including police officers and firefighters, have been injured, Interior Minister Laurent Nunes said.
What began as a student-led protest has expanded into a nationwide movement involving workers, trade unions and campaigners demanding better public services, higher wages and improved living conditions.
From classrooms to nationwide protests
The current wave of demonstrations began last month, when students protested against teacher shortages and inadequate educational facilities. Discontent over conditions in schools in working-class areas subsequently grew into a broader movement against the cost of living, social inequality and reductions in public spending.
Alongside calls for improvements to education and other public services, protesters have demanded higher wages and pensions. Student organisations, trade unions and activists associated with the Yellow Vest movement have joined the demonstrations.
On Saturday, more than half a million people reportedly took part in protests across the country. While most demonstrations remained peaceful, violence broke out in several cities, with groups attacking businesses and public buildings.
Historic town hall damaged by fire as shops are looted
The historic town hall in Limoges, a building dating back 143 years, was severely damaged by fire, with its roof collapsing. In Lyon, the tourist office was also set on fire, while attackers reportedly broke into the town hall in Marseille.
In Paris and other cities, the windows of businesses were smashed, supermarkets and other shops were looted, and vehicles were set ablaze.
One person reportedly died of a heart attack during the demonstrations in Paris. Authorities arrested 855 people in the capital alone, according to the figures cited in reports.
Clashes continue into Sunday
Clashes broke out again in Paris and Marseille on Sunday as emergency and municipal crews continued clearing damaged streets, burned vehicles and debris left by the unrest.
Police used tear gas at Place de la République in Paris, while riot police intervened to prevent further attacks on businesses.
Concerned by the scale of the destruction, the mayors of Paris, Marseille and Lyon called for an urgent meeting with the prime minister to discuss the situation and the response to the unrest.
Macron appeals for calm
President Emmanuel Macron urged the public to remain calm, acknowledging that the grievances of peaceful demonstrators were legitimate and should be distinguished from acts of violence.
At the same time, he warned that those responsible for damaging public property and businesses would face legal consequences.
The Government has blamed far-left groups and looters for contributing to the violence. Prime Minister Sébastien Le Cornu said that, while the right to protest must be respected, violence and looting would not be tolerated.
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