France Protest Escalates as Over 400,000 Demonstrate Against Education Funding and Cost of Living Crisis

Key summary

More than 400,000 people gathered at over 289 locations across France to protest rising living costs and demand increased education funding. The demonstration turned violent in several major cities as protesters clashed with police who used tear gas, sound bombs, and water cannons. French Interior Ministry officials reported nearly 1,000 arrests nationwide, while the government deployed over 70,000 officers, including military inspectors, helicopters, and armored vehicles to prevent looting and property damage. The unrest challenges President Emmanuel Macron in the final months of his term ahead of next year's presidential election.