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Scuffles and Fires Break Out as Protesters Rally Across France
Authorities reported 272 arrests as tear gas, water cannons and fires marked protests fueled by rising living costs and student grievances.
On Saturday, thousands of protesters gathered across France to demonstrate against rising living costs, with significant unrest reported in major cities including Paris, Lyon, and Marseille.
Demonstrators expressed frustration over spiking petrol, energy, and food prices, prompting citizens to revive the "yellow vest" movement with backing from The CGT, which called for "higher wages and pensions."
About 20,000 protesters in Lyon sparked a fire inside a tourist office, and authorities reported at least 272 arrests nationwide, while Marseille mayor Benoit Payan told BFM TV the City Hall damage was "limited."
Interior Laurent Nunez reported "a growing number of violent incidents" as police deployed tear gas and water cannons; Nunez suspended certain stun grenades after a 15-year-old demonstrator was injured.
Nationwide student protests since mid-September have drawn international attention, recently joined by climate activist Greta Thunberg in Saint-Denis, and are now influencing the presidential election campaign.
Tear gas in Paris, looted shops in Marseille and a burning tourist information service in Lyon: The protests against high cost of living are escalating. What is behind the rage?