Massive Anti-Government Protests Sweep France
Hundreds of thousands rally against rising living costs as authorities deploy 70,000 security personnel.
Callum Smith
Hundreds of thousands of anti-government protesters rallied across France today.
Officials estimate 410,000 participants nationwide. Trade unions, however, claim the number of protesters doubles the government's estimate.
While demonstrations remained largely peaceful, evening skirmishes erupted in major cities. Paris and Marseille saw riot police respond with tear gas and water cannons, dispersing crowds.
French authorities deployed 70,000 security personnel across the country. Heavy safeguards in Paris led to the shuttering of businesses and the closure of major cultural landmarks, including the Louvre.
Nearly 1,000 arrests occurred during the unrest. A GB News reporter present during the clashes experienced tear gas.
The government has faced a crisis since high school demonstrations began in mid-September. Opposition figures assert protests will persist unless President Emmanuel Macron addresses public discontent.