France sees violent riots amid mass protests over living costs

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 21 Oct, 05:32 · Archive

Violent demonstrations in French cities this month have resulted in at least 2,400 arrests as rioters clashed with police and destroyed property.

France has experienced its most violent demonstrations in years this month, raising concerns that riots are overshadowing hundreds of thousands of peaceful protesters. The unrest centres on rising living costs and poor conditions in schools. On Saturday alone, at least 2,400 people were arrested as rioters clashed with police, set cars on fire, stormed public buildings, looted stores and engulfed a historic city hall in flames.

Outgoing President Emmanuel Macron responded on Sunday to the destruction with dismay. "How can French people do this to France?" he asked, adding that nothing justifies the violence. "We all feel anger and shame," he said.

France has a long tradition of public protest as part of its national identity, enshrined in the anthem "La Marseillaise". Citizens have protested over fuel taxes with yellow vests, farmers have driven tractors down the Champs-Élysées for better pay, and museum workers have struck over tourism management. However, the nation's protest culture has sometimes turned violent historically, including during the 1789 revolution that overthrew the monarchy.

How it is being reported

• France has a proud tradition of protesting, and sometimes people lose their headsFrance is known for its vibrant protest culture, where activism is seen as a social duty and part of the national identity.Clickorlando · 21 Oct, 05:05
• France has a proud tradition of protesting, and sometimes people lose their headsFrance is known for its vibrant protest culture, where activism is seen as a social duty and part of the national identity.News4Jax · 21 Oct, 05:05

In this story: France · Emmanuel Macron · King Louis XVI · Marie-Antoinette · Champs-Élysées · Louvre

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