By Haitian Tribune Staff
Demonstrations over rising living costs and declining public services spread across France on Saturday, with violent clashes and damage to public buildings in several cities. The unrest was described as among the country’s most serious in years.
Hundreds of thousands of people joined peaceful marches in cities across the country. But some groups broke away from demonstrations, targeting public property and police. Reports said protesters looted luxury stores and supermarkets and attacked police officers and vehicles.
In Limoges, the city hall was set on fire. In Marseille, masked protesters entered city hall and covered parts of the building with graffiti. In Lyon, demonstrators set fire to the city’s tourist office. Police used tear gas as clashes broke out in several cities.
The protests began as a student-led movement and expanded into a broader national demonstration. Participants voiced frustration over inequality, the cost of living and public spending. Protests were also reported in Portugal, Italy, Belgium and Albania.
Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu said the government would not be intimidated by the violence. He blamed the unrest on what he described as the “ultra-left” and criminal groups, and warned that some were using the demonstrations as a “warm-up” ahead of next year’s presidential election.
“We will not let ourselves be intimidated,” Lecornu said.
By the Haitian Tribune Newsroom
