💼 5 PM · While you worked
About 550,000 protest across France as student movement spreads
French authorities said about 550,000 people protested across France on Saturday, including about 110,000 in Paris. A movement that began at a high school near Paris over run-down buildings, overcrowded classrooms and teacher shortages was joined by unions and "yellow vest" protesters angry about living costs. Police used tear gas and stun grenades; protesters broke into Marseille's town hall. The Interior Ministry said at least 400 people were arrested.
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How each side sees it
The government saysPresident Emmanuel Macron said the right to protest is respected but must come with respect for people and property, and called for calm. The Interior Ministry blamed the violence on the "ultra-left."
Protesters sayStudents want better schools, with fewer overcrowded classrooms and more teachers; the CGT union and yellow vest protesters call for "higher wages and pensions, lower prices" and protection of public services.
Sources
- Al Jazeera: Tear gas and unrest as hundreds of thousands protest in France
- Euronews: Dozens arrested as protesters clash with security forces in Paris
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