In brief
Around 550,000 demonstrators roamed France demanding better education and relief from the cost of living, but the protests devolved into vandalism and violence. Fires broke out as cars and shops were attacked, prompting riot police to fire tear gas and use water cannons. At least 1,200 people were arrested on Saturday, while President Macron condemned the violence and vowed to prosecute the offenders. The unrest follows escalating student protests targeting Macron’s handling of the economic crisis. Residents and officials call for calm as the country grapples with mounting tensions.
An estimated 550,000 people took part in protests across France, demanding greater investment in education and action on the rising cost of living.
The demonstrations quickly descended into violence, with cars and buildings set alight and shops ransacked.
At least 1,200 people were arrested on Saturday as riot police deployed tear gas and water cannons to disperse crowds.
The unrest follows weeks of student‑led protests, with demonstrators joining forces to express growing anger over economic conditions and President Emmanuel Macron’s handling of the crisis.
In a social media post, Macron denounced the violence and said that vandals and looters will be "prosecuted and punished".
BBC correspondent Adina Campbell reports from Paris.
