France protests turn violent as 1,200 arrested

More than 1,200 people have been arrested across France after demonstrations over the rising cost of living and deteriorating conditions in schools escalated into violent clashes, arson and widespread looting. The unrest left buildings damaged, businesses ransacked and around 150 police officers injured, according to Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu.

An estimated 550,000 people took part in Saturday’s demonstrations, making it one of the largest recent protest gatherings in the country. Although many demonstrators initially marched peacefully, violence broke out in several cities as groups clashed with riot police and set fire to vehicles and buildings.

In Paris, police deployed tear gas and water cannon to disperse crowds as tensions increased into the evening. Fires were reported in several parts of the capital, including near Place de la République, where vehicles were set alight. Shops were looted, businesses were vandalised and a restaurant was reportedly gutted by fire.

Riot police charged at groups of demonstrators in central Paris, with officers seen using batons during confrontations. Despite the violence, some protesters said they had joined the demonstrations peacefully to demand changes to the country’s economic and education policies.

The unrest also spread to other major cities, including Lyon, Marseille, Rennes, Toulouse and Angers. In Lyon, the city’s tourist office was set ablaze, prompting Mayor Grégory Doucet to describe the incident as a major loss because of the building’s historical and cultural significance.

Firefighters faced difficulties responding to some incidents. Local police in Lyon said groups described as hostile had obstructed emergency crews attempting to tackle the blaze.

In Limoges, a fire at the town hall caused part of the roof to collapse, according to local authorities. Damage to public buildings and commercial properties was also reported in Grenoble, Avignon, Pau, Montpellier and Valence.

Looting affected several businesses across the country. Clothing and food stores were targeted in Paris, while an Apple store in Lille was reportedly broken into and emptied. In Saint-Étienne, Mayor Régis Juanico said a young man suffered a severe hand injury after a small explosive device detonated.

The demonstrations have grown out of weeks of protests by students against staff shortages and deteriorating facilities in secondary schools. Students have been joined by trade unions and other groups opposing the rising cost of living and increasing fuel prices.

The movement has also attracted supporters of the yellow vest protests, which began in 2018 in response to fuel costs and wider economic grievances. That movement became one of France’s most enduring protest campaigns in recent history.

France’s Interior Ministry said some demonstrations were disrupted by hooded individuals who engaged in targeted acts of violence. Authorities reported incidents in several urban centres as security forces attempted to contain the unrest.

The protests have intensified at a politically sensitive time for France, with President Emmanuel Macron approaching the end of his term next year. The country is preparing for a presidential election in April, amid political divisions and growing public dissatisfaction over economic and social issues.

Jean-Luc Mélenchon, leader of the left-wing La France Insoumise party, participated in demonstrations and accused police of using excessive force against protesters. However, he also condemned looting and arson. Lecornu criticised Mélenchon’s remarks, describing them as dangerous and cynical.

Marine Le Pen, leader of the National Rally, said protesters’ legitimate grievances had been overshadowed by violence and accused the far left of contributing to the unrest. The competing political responses have added to tensions as parties position themselves ahead of the election.

President Macron warned that those responsible for attacking public buildings, damaging businesses and looting town halls would face prosecution and punishment.

The government has already announced measures aimed at addressing some concerns. Education Minister Édouard Geffray previously promised 3,000 additional supply teachers to help address staffing shortages in schools.

However, the demonstrations have continued despite the proposed measures, reflecting persistent concerns over education, living costs and public services. Authorities now face the challenge of restoring order while responding to the grievances that have brought hundreds of thousands of people onto the streets.