ALWAGHT- Violent confrontations, detentions, and tear gas erupted in Paris during nationwide demonstrations supported by student groups and trade unions, drawing 161,500 protesters across France.
Clashes between protesters and police erupted in Paris as demonstrators demanded the resignation of President Emmanuel Macron, the prime minister and the education minister. Security forces used tear gas and water cannons to disperse crowds, with reports of injuries, arrests and property damage. France’s Interior Ministry recorded 161,500 participants nationwide, more than double the 71,500 reported at the previous rallies, while unions estimated turnout at 480,000.
Paris saw some of the most serious confrontations, with several cars set on fire and masked protesters throwing objects at police. Demonstrations also took place in Lyon, Nantes, Strasbourg, Toulouse, Bordeaux, Marseille and Lens. Swedish activist Greta Thunberg and French left-wing leader Jean-Luc Mélenchon joined protesters, as the movement gained support beyond student groups.
The protests began last month when secondary school students blocked school entrances to demand better educational conditions. Demonstrators are calling for action on teacher shortages, deteriorating school facilities and overcrowded timetables, rejecting the government’s offer to provide 3,000 substitute teachers to 114 schools facing the greatest staffing difficulties. The education ministry reported that 214 schools were closed, while a student union said 90 percent of universities had shut in solidarity.
The growing unrest has intensified pressure on Macron’s government as it struggles to pass a cost-cutting budget amid rising public debt and economic uncertainty. Authorities are investigating 34 allegations of police violence, while the education ministry reported 147 injured teachers. Student groups and unions are seeking to broaden the movement, with further nationwide demonstrations against the rising cost of living expected on Saturday. Macron has urged protesters to remain calm, calling for dialogue and consultation.
