Half a million French protesters march as fires and looting spread across cities
An estimated 550,000 people protested over cost of living and school quality on Saturday; masked groups set fires and looted some shops.
Hundreds of thousands of French protesters took to the streets on Saturday over rising living costs and school quality. About 550,000 people marched across the country; Paris alone drew 110,000.
Masked protesters set fires in buildings and cars, looted some shops and damaged government offices in Lyon, Bordeaux, Lille and other cities. In Limoges, arson so badly damaged a town hall that the roof collapsed.
Authorities fired tear gas in the hope of dispersing the crowds. Police arrested about 400 people and 60 officers were injured.
President Emmanuel Macron said there is no room for violence in the republic.
- 550,000
- Protesters nationwide
- 110,000
- Paris turnout
- 400 arrested, 60 police injured
- Arrests and injuries
Why it mattersThe unrest is intensifying before national elections due within months, raising questions about social stability and political direction.
AustraliaNo direct Australian effect, but reflects cost-of-living pressures across developed economies that are driving unrest globally.
Corroborated bynine.com.au
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 1 h ago
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