Kathmandu [Nepal], November 1 – Hundreds of thousands of people took to the streets across France on Saturday for a third consecutive weekend of protests over rising living costs and education with demonstrations also held in Germany, Portugal and the Netherlands.
The French government estimated that around 3,20,000 people joined the nationwide protests down from 4,10,000 on October 24 and 5,50,000 on October 17. Authorities reported more than 560 arrests by Saturday night.
The demonstrations initially led by high school students protesting poor school facilities, teacher shortages and an allegedly unfair university admissions system have since attracted labour unions, climate activists and people dissatisfied with the cost of living and President Emmanuel Macron’s leadership.
Most rallies in France remained peaceful with some participants wearing Halloween costumes. However, clashes erupted near the end of a march in Paris where protesters threw bottles and fireworks at police. Officers responded with tear gas and stun grenades.
Around 70,000 police and gendarmes were deployed nationwide amid concerns about further violence. Authorities also imposed restrictions in parts of Paris to prevent disorder.
In Germany young demonstrators called for greater investment in education, healthcare and climate protection. Meanwhile, thousands marched peacefully in Lisbon, Portugal demanding action on the housing crisis.
In the Netherlands, police maintained a strong presence in The Hague amid concerns about possible disturbances.
