Tension and clashes as hundreds of thousands protest again in France

What the report says

Police fired tear gas in Paris and Lyon as a new wave of protests swept France on Saturday, with authorities estimating 320,000 people marched nationwide in the third straight weekend of demonstrations. The rallies, led largely by young people and backed by student and labour groups, focused on the cost of living and frustration over the state of schools and public education. Al Jazeera reported that turnout in Paris was estimated at 70,000 by the authorities, while organisers put the national total much higher.

The main march in Paris began peacefully but later turned tense near its endpoint, where bins and street furniture were set on fire and some masked demonstrators clashed with police. AFP reported that objects were thrown at security forces on the outskirts of the capital, and the Interior Ministry said at least 290 people had been arrested nationwide. About 70,000 police and gendarmes were deployed across the country, and officials warned of a heightened risk of disorder, especially after dark on Halloween.

The protests began last month over complaints from students about neglected school buildings, teacher shortages and what they see as an unfair university admissions system. Since then, unions have joined the movement and the demonstrations have grown into a broader challenge to the government. Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu has met with student groups and is examining possible measures to ease living costs, according to the report.

Al Jazeera also noted that similar youth-led protests have spread to other European cities, including Germany, Spain and Italy, where authorities have also prepared for unrest.