Tension and clashes as hundreds of thousands protest again in France

Authorities reported 320,000 people participated in the nationwide demonstrations, including 70,000 in Paris. However, a coalition of youth organizations and unions claimed nearly half a million people took part, with 200,000 marching in the capital. The rallies marked the third consecutive weekend of protests in France.

Marches began peacefully in Paris but turned violent as protesters gathered near the endpoint of the main march. Bins and street furniture were set alight, with plumes of smoke rising over the city. Police responded by firing tear gas at the demonstrators.

Violent Escalation

Dozens of masked individuals dressed in black used hammers to pry up paving stones and hurl them at police on the outskirts of Paris. At least one incendiary device was thrown at security forces, who responded with tear gas and baton charges.

Government Response

France's Ministry of Interior reported at least 290 arrests nationwide. About 70,000 police and gendarmes were deployed across the country, with Interior Minister Laurent Nunez warning of a "very high risk" of disorder, especially after dark on Halloween.

The main Paris march was moved to the city's eastern edge after a last-minute court battle, and unaccompanied minors faced a 9pm curfew around the Champs-Elysees. Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu has held meetings with student unions and is considering measures to ease the cost of living.

European Wave of Protests

The movement began last month with high school students protesting against neglected buildings, teacher shortages and an unfair university admissions system. Labour unions have since joined, and protests have spread across Europe.

In Germany, thousands rallied while police in Cologne used water cannon to break up large crowds protesting against rising costs, education cuts and military conscription plans. Organizers claimed 170,000 people registered for demonstrations in more than 30 cities. In Barcelona, regional police prepared their highest alert level after rioting led to about 130 arrests, mostly minors. Italian police were also on alert after clashes in Milan, Turin and Bologna.