Hundreds of Thousands Protest Rising Cost of Living in France; Nearly 1,000 Arrested

Hundreds of thousands of people across France have staged large-scale protests against the rising cost of living and a crisis in public services. On Saturday (October 24), clashes broke out between protesters and police in the capital, Paris, as well as in several other cities across the country. Approximately 70,000 police officers were deployed nationwide to maintain control, and nearly 1,000 people were arrested in connection with the demonstrations.

According to the French Ministry of the Interior, about 410,000 people participated in the protests nationwide, with more than 110,000 in Paris alone. However, the labor union CGT claims that the number of participants reached approximately 800,000, with about 250,000 gathering in Paris. The protests also spread to cities including Marseille, Lyon, Nice, Toulouse, and Bordeaux.

What began as a student-led movement was later joined by workers, professionals, and retirees. The protests gained momentum due to widespread discontent over issues such as a shortage of teachers, the dilapidated infrastructure of educational institutions, the rising cost of living, and deficiencies in public services. Various labor organizations, including the "Yellow Vests" (Gilets Jaunes) movement, also took part. Following incidents of vandalism and looting during the previous week's protests, strict security measures were implemented this time.

In Paris, clashes occurred between police and certain groups following a peaceful march. Police used tear gas and water cannons to disperse the protesters. For security reasons, at least 24 metro stations in the capital were closed. Several major cultural institutions, including the Louvre and the Musée d'Orsay, were also shut down. Additionally, heightened security measures were put in place for shops and luxury retail outlets.

According to French Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez, there were fewer incidents of vandalism and looting at business establishments compared to the previous week. However, objects and fireworks were thrown at security forces. While 385 people were detained during last week’s protests, the number of arrests has now risen to approximately one thousand.

Meanwhile, outside of France, reports have emerged of preparations for protests and planned demonstrations in the Italian cities of Naples, Rome, and Milan, as well as in Brussels, Belgium. Left-wing leader Jean-Luc Mélenchon has warned that a nationwide general strike could take place on November 5 if President Emmanuel Macron fails to take action to address the demands of the protesters in France.