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France has deployed around 70,000 police officers and gendarmes nationwide as fresh protests erupted on Saturday amid growing public anger over rising living costs and conditions in schools.
The massive security deployment follows violent unrest during demonstrations last week, when looting, arson and clashes with police were reported in several cities, including Paris, Marseille and Lyon.
Interior Minister Laurent Nunez said the authorities would take a firm stance against violence and looting.
Security forces have been reinforced with specialised police units, helicopters, drones, water cannons and armoured vehicles to prevent a repeat of last week’s unrest.
The protests initially began with high school students demanding better educational facilities, more teachers and improvements to the country’s education system.
The movement has since expanded, drawing support from people angered by the rising cost of living and broader economic and social concerns.
Thousands of demonstrators took to the streets in Paris and other cities on Saturday.
While many marches remained peaceful, scattered clashes were reported in some locations, with police using tear gas and water cannons. Authorities said 135 people had been arrested by early afternoon.
Security restrictions were imposed in several cities, while some demonstrations were banned or forced to follow alternative routes.
Major cultural institutions in Paris, including the Louvre, were closed amid concerns over public safety.
The renewed unrest has put President Emmanuel Macron’s government under pressure to address protesters’ demands while restoring public order.
The government has also faced criticism over restrictions on demonstrations, with civil rights groups raising concerns about the right to peaceful protest.
The situation remains tense as authorities seek to prevent further violence and contain the nationwide demonstrations.
