More Than 1,200 Arrested As France Riots Spread Over School Grievances

France was gripped by nationwide unrest on Saturday, October 17, as protests over rising living costs, poor school conditions and deteriorating public services escalated into clashes, arson and looting. More than 1,200 people were reportedly arrested, although conflicting arrest figures emerged in initial reports.

The demonstrations brought together students, teachers, workers, pensioners, farmers and activists. What began last month with concerns over teacher shortages, dilapidated school buildings and police violence expanded into a broader movement against inequality, inflation and declining public services.

Violence erupted in several cities, including Paris and Marseille. In central Paris, police fired tear gas at masked protesters who threw fireworks and paving stones. Banks were attacked, shops were looted and vehicles were set on fire. Along Boulevard Magenta, several businesses were reportedly broken into, while demonstrators also attempted to enter the Galeries Lafayette department store.

In Marseille, protesters briefly forced their way into the town hall after using security barriers to ram its entrance. One demonstrator spray-painted an anarchist symbol on a wall before police intervened. Elsewhere, rubbish bins were set alight, and residents were forced to shut their windows and doors as thick clouds of tear gas spread through nearby streets.

The unrest has revived memories of France’s Yellow Vest movement, which emerged in 2018 over fuel prices, economic hardship and social inequality. The latest protests have attracted support from groups demanding higher wages and pensions, lower prices and stronger protection for public services.

The CGT, one of France’s largest labour unions, backed the demands, arguing that public services must adequately meet people’s needs. A survey cited in reports found that around 45 per cent of respondents were concerned about the rising cost of living and inflation.

The demonstrations have also intensified political tensions. The far-left France Unbowed party has voiced support for student protesters, while right-wing politicians have emphasised the need to support police and restore public order.

Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez condemned the violence, blaming rioters who had allegedly exploited the demonstrations to loot and damage property. He said the government had no plans to declare a state of emergency but warned that those responsible would face action.

The protests have added to pressure on President Emmanuel Macron’s government as frustration over economic conditions and the quality of public services continues to grow.