France Protests | Paris, Oct. 25: More than 4 lakh people took to the streets across France, protesting poor school conditions and rising living costs amid heightened security.
France’s Interior Ministry estimated that 410,000 people joined demonstrations nationwide, including 110,000 in Paris. However, the CGT trade union put the turnout at nearly 800,000, almost double the official estimate.
The Paris march began peacefully at Porte d’Italie and moved towards Porte de Vincennes along the city’s southeastern boulevards. However, tensions escalated near the end of the demonstration.
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Police fired tear gas and used water cannon to disperse crowds after some demonstrators threw objects and fireworks. Authorities said around 500 people were involved in clashes, although the violence was less severe than during the previous weekend’s unrest.
France Protests Intensify Amid Security Restrictions
The demonstrations brought together students, teachers, nurses, environmental activists and trade union representatives. Protesters demanded better school facilities, more teachers, improved public services and relief from rising living costs.
Some demonstrators also called for French President Emmanuel Macron’s resignation. Others criticised the government’s handling of public protests and broader economic concerns.
Authorities restricted the Paris march to a route along the city’s southeastern edge. They had prohibited the originally negotiated route between Place de la Bastille and Place de la Nation.
The restrictions angered some protesters, who accused the government of trying to weaken the movement by keeping demonstrations away from central Paris.
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“This is a tactic by the government to try to run the movement out of steam,” protester and podcaster Emma said, arguing that changing the route made the movement less visible.
Security was tightened across the capital ahead of the march. Several businesses closed or covered their windows with protective panels, while some retailers hired private security personnel.
At least 24 Metro stations were closed at police request. Major cultural institutions, including the Louvre and the Musée d’Orsay, also shut for the day. Art Basel Paris cancelled its weekend programme.
The protests have grown from student demonstrations over staff shortages and deteriorating school conditions into a wider movement over wages, public services and economic inequality.
The latest mobilisation adds to pressure on Macron’s government as France continues to grapple with social unrest. Further demonstrations are expected as unions and student groups continue pressing their demands.
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