Protests in France

New outbreaks of violence in Paris – 1,000 arrested nationwide

Nearly 1,000 people have been arrested during the French protests on Saturday, according to the country’s Interior Minister, Laurent Nuñez, as reported by AFP. He indicated that the figure is likely to rise throughout the evening.

He further noted that while demonstrations proceeded smoothly in several cities, in some locations they descended into violence, which he attributed to what he termed "far-left" groups. In Paris, clashes with police have been reported; authorities deployed tear gas and water cannons to disperse the crowds.

The protests began due to dissatisfaction with the education system but have since evolved into demonstrations against the high cost of living. 

Shops remain closed: "Angry at the rioters"

Many shops across France are remaining closed during Saturday’s protests, AFP reports. According to the news agency, a clothing store near the famous Place de la Bastille in Paris has cleared out all its merchandise, while other business owners have boarded up their windows for protection.

Last weekend saw an outbreak of violence, during which several shops were looted.

"It’s the rioters I’m angry with—the people who go out solely to smash things and steal," says an employee at a car rental agency.

According to Reuters, the protests in Paris had initially proceeded without any major issues. However, by 6:00 p.m., an *Expressen* reporter on the scene stated that the situation had escalated into violence. 

Left-wing demand for Macron: “There is still time to give up”

70,000 police officers have been deployed across France this Saturday as new demonstrations take place in several cities, Reuters reports.

Tens of thousands of people marched in Paris, an event that proceeded without incident. In Marseille and Lyon—the country’s second and third-largest cities, respectively—however, protesters and police have clashed.

Jean-Luc Mélenchon, leader of the far-left party LFI, took part in the Paris protest and addressed President Emmanuel Macron. He argues that the President must realize that social discontent will lead to protests week after week.

“There is still time to give up.”