Mass protests swept across France for a fourth consecutive weekend as demonstrators expressed sustained anger over the country’s escalating cost of living. According to figures from the Ministry of the Interior, approximately 146,000 people participated in rallies nationwide on Saturday, including 46,000 in the capital, Paris. Trade unions provided higher estimates, claiming as many as 250,000 participants across the country with 75,000 in Paris. Linked to worsening living standards, the protests later expanded to encompass a host of grievances.
This latest round of civil unrest follows a large-scale union-led demonstration just days prior that drew an estimated 575,000 people. To manage the ongoing activity, the government deployed roughly 70,000 security personnel. Interior Minister Laurent Nunez issued a stern warning ahead of the weekend, stating that authorities would be “ready and waiting” to intervene against anyone participating in rioting or looting. The demonstrations come just days after an estimated 575,000 people took part in a rally organised by trade unions.
Despite the high security presence, clashes occurred in Paris.
Footage captured by the CLPRESS agency showed police using tear gas and charging into crowds to disperse protesters. Separately, police reported that 200 individuals attacked officers during an incident involving the arrest of a person who had set fire to a bin in a Paris square. Similar measures were taken in Lyon, where police deployed tear gas to break up an unauthorized gathering of several hundred people who were obstructing a road in the city center. Clashes broke out between police and some protesters in the capital, Paris, despite a lower turnout than in previous weeks. A police officer was also seen hitting a protester with a baton.
The protests, which originated in September as a student-led movement regarding inadequate high school resources and conditions, have expanded significantly. While students remain at the forefront, the rallies now include participants of all ages from various professional backgrounds. One railway worker noted that joining the demonstrations was essential to advocate for better salaries and infrastructure, while also standing in solidarity with the younger generation. “I spoke to one railway worker who told me it was really important to be here today. According to reporting from the French capital, Natacha Butler, People working in a variety of jobs attended Saturday’s demonstrations in support of the student-led movement.
Observers noted that the current climate has provided a sense of momentum to trade unions, which have faced challenges in recent years. Many workers view this period as a critical opportunity to pressure the government for improved economic conditions. The protest movement is unfolding against the backdrop of the upcoming April presidential election.
Political activity is also heating up as candidates prepare for the vote. Far-right contender Marine Le Pen currently leads in polls, followed by the France Unbowed party’s far-left candidate, Jean-Luc Melenchon. On Saturday, Melenchon addressed roughly 17,000 supporters to unveil his platform, promising to pursue policies in direct opposition to those of incumbent President Emmanuel Macron.
Melenchon proposed stimulating the economy by leveraging consumer spending and utilizing existing state savings. He argued that these billions of euros should be redirected toward the nation’s pressing social and ecological requirements, framing his agenda as a necessary alternative to the current administration’s economic path.
