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Half a million protest against living costs in France
Protests erupt in France as half a million rally against rising costs and violence amidst presidential election tensions
Protests erupt in France as half a million rally against rising costs and violence amidst presidential election tensions
– Around 550,000 people protested in France against rising living costs and poor school conditions.
– Some protests turned violent, leading to property damage and injuries among police officers.
Protests escalate
Most protestors were peaceful, but some areas experienced significant violence.
In Paris, approximately 110,000 marched, and while the main protest was calm, unrest broke out later in the day with vehicles set on fire.
In Lyon, a historic tourist office was destroyed by fire, prompting Mayor Grégory Doucet to label it a “tragedy.”
Town halls in Marseille and Lille were broken into and damaged, while numerous shops, including a Hermès boutique and an Apple store, were looted.
The Interior Ministry reported 60 police officers sustained injuries during the unrest.
The government attributed the violence to “ultra-left” groups.
In a statement on X, President Emmanuel Macron condemned the violence and promised prosecution for looters.
Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu described the police faced extreme violence during the protests.
Rising tensions
Students and union members have united against high prices and inequality in France.
The movement originated from high school student protests over staff shortages and declining school conditions.
Despite promises for additional substitute teachers, protests have escalated.
Economic cuts proposed by Lecornu may exacerbate public discontent as parliamentary debates loom.
As unrest grows, France prepares for a presidential election in April.
