Tens of thousands march across France

Demonstrations took place in towns and cities nationwide on Saturday against rising costs and the poor state of school buildings.Police arrested two hundred seventy two people after violent incidents in Paris, Marseille, Rennes and Angers.

Vandalism and fires in multiple cities

In Lyon, the tourist office was set alight and police used water cannon and tear gas.In Lille, protesters smashed into the mayor's office.In Marseille, around two dozen people broke into town hall and smashed furniture.

Lyon mayor condemns violence

Lyon mayor Grégory Doucet said the images were shocking and strongly condemned the scenes. He said vandalising public buildings means attacking the people of Lyon.

“I strongly condemn these unacceptable scenes of violence.”

Marseille mayor criticises police response

Marseille mayor Benoît Payan said there was only one company of riot police for the city.

“This morning, there was one company of riot police for Marseille.”

Paris clashes at Republic statue

In Paris, several hundred people clashed with security forces around the statue of the Republic before the main demonstration.Security forces used tear gas and water cannon.

“2026: the police maim school students”

Multiple groups unite over grievances

The day of action brought together high school pupils, university students, Yellow Vests activists and climate campaigners.It followed weeks of tension over crumbling school buildings and lack of teachers.

Cost of living drives anger

A nineteen year old protester named Lola said they were fighting because the cost of living is too harsh, fuel prices are too high, and high school pupils are being attacked for protesting.

“We are fighting because the cost of living is too harsh, because the price of fuel is too high.”

France faces economic pressure ahead

Purchasing power in France has dwindled since two thousand twenty four, while fuel prices rose since the start of the US-Iran war in February.