Nationwide demonstrations in France see clashes and arrests

The Interior Ministry reported approximately 146,000 people participated in demonstrations across the country, with 46,000 in Paris. A youth union alliance estimated the national turnout at 250,000, and 75,000 in the capital. Authorities made at least 360 arrests, according to a ministry count.

Clashes between protesters and police occurred in several cities, including Paris, where police deployed tear gas in response to projectiles thrown by some demonstrators. Reports from Le Monde indicated that garbage cans were set ablaze during these confrontations.

Police prevented a planned Yellow Vest gathering at Place de la Concorde and arrested two leaders of the movement, as reported by Le Monde. The Yellow Vest movement initially arose in 2018 in response to proposed fuel tax increases, later expanding to encompass broader concerns about living costs and President Emmanuel Macron’s policies.

This weekend’s attendance was lower than the previous three weekends and also smaller than a union-led demonstration on November 5th, which saw an estimated 575,000 participants nationwide. The protests initially began in late September with high school students advocating for improved conditions, later gaining support from university students and unions.

The demonstrations are occurring as French lawmakers recently rejected the revenue section of the 2027 budget, presenting a challenge for the government as it attempts to manage public finances and address public discontent. The budget proposal will now be debated by the Senate, starting on November 20th. Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu is scheduled to meet with labor and employer representatives on Monday to discuss wages and purchasing power.