Protests across France yesterday saw between 550,000 and 800,000 people take to the streets. In Paris, police deployed teargas at Place de la République and in other areas, with one witness describing the mood as initially festive before the teargas was fired.
The protests involved a diverse range of participants, including students, union workers, and individuals concerned about the rising cost of living. The price of petrol, which reached a record €2.4 per litre last month, was a motivating factor for some, echoing the 2018 gilets jaunes movement.
In some areas, protests were peaceful, with participants articulating political demands. However, in Paris, the situation reportedly descended into chaos, with stun grenades exploding and protesters throwing bottles at police. A wine shop was looted, with items taken for use as missiles against police.
Over 1,800 arrests have been made in connection with the protests. Political figures have reacted to the events, with Marine Le Pen condemning looting while positioning herself against the cost of living, and Jean-Luc Mélenchon's left-wing party defending protesters and focusing on police violence.