Protests Over Cost of Living Turn Violent in France; More Than 2,000 Arrested

Dragon Media Newsroom

Protests across France on Saturday against rising living costs and deteriorating public services turned violent. Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez said on Sunday that more than 2,000 people had been arrested and over 600 police officers, gendarmes and firefighters injured. He described the figures as provisional, saying the number of injured could rise.

Police estimated that around 550,000 people took part in the demonstrations. The CGT trade union put the turnout at 800,000. While most protests were peaceful, some groups looted and vandalised shops and set fire to vehicles and public buildings in cities including Paris, Marseille, Lyon and Lille.

In central France, a fire at the historic Limoges city hall, built in 1883, caused the roof to collapse and destroyed about two-thirds of the building’s exterior. In Marseille, police removed protesters who had entered the city hall. In Paris, police used tear gas and water cannons to disperse crowds.

President Emmanuel Macron said those responsible for vandalism, attacks on government offices and businesses, and looting would face prosecution. Political figures competing in next year’s presidential election also traded accusations over the unrest.

The protests began on September 17, when students demonstrated against teacher shortages, overcrowded classrooms and poor school facilities. Grievances over rising costs and public services later joined the movement. France will hold a presidential election in 2027. Analysts say economic pressures and public dissatisfaction with services could deepen political polarisation ahead of the vote.