Protests that started with school students turned into mass demonstrations in France
Students, trade unions, and farmers have also joined the protests in France that began with education-related demands. According to various estimates, between 500,000 and 800,000 people took part in the October 17 demonstrations. Riots broke out in some cities, and more than 2,000 people were detained across the country.
School students' protest turned into mass demonstrations in France
According to DW, French President Emmanuel Macron, in an address to the nation on the evening of October 18, condemned looting, destruction, and violence against police officers.
"Why are French people doing this to France?" the president said, reacting to the actions of those participating in the riots. He stated that those who engaged in destruction and looting must compensate for the damage caused.
At the same time, Macron addressed the issues raised by the protesters — the rising cost of living, falling real wages, and the situation in the education system. He promised that the government would engage in dialogue with the public in the coming days and work on solutions.
"Nothing justifies this violence," the French leader emphasized.
During the actions on October 17, cars and dozens of shops were damaged in Paris. In Marseille, rioters stormed the city hall building, while in Lyon, the city tourist office building was set on fire.
The protest movement had begun at the start of the academic year with actions by school students. They demanded an increase in funding for the education system and reforms to university entrance exams.
Later, they were joined by students, trade unions, farmers, and participants of the "Yellow Vests" movement. The demands expanded as well, with protesting against the rising cost of living amidst France's budget crisis becoming one of the main issues.