French police used water cannon against protesters in the southern city of Toulouse on Saturday, October 31, as demonstrations over the rising cost of living, education conditions and police violence continued across France for the third consecutive weekend.
The demonstrations were largely peaceful in several cities, but clashes broke out in Toulouse, Lyon, Marseille and other locations. Police used crowd-control measures, including tear gas, as tensions escalated.
Water Cannon Used in Toulouse
- In Toulouse, several thousand people, mostly young demonstrators, reportedly participated in an unauthorised gathering. Police deployed water cannon as tensions increased.
- Some protesters were reportedly wearing Halloween costumes during the demonstration.
Clashes Reported in Other Cities
Incidents were also reported in several French cities:
- Lyon: Police used tear gas after some demonstrators reportedly threw projectiles.
- Marseille: Clashes broke out during an unauthorised march.
- Toulouse: Police deployed water cannon against demonstrators.
- Grenoble: Tear gas was reportedly used following tensions during a march.
Around 320,000 People Demonstrated Across France
- According to France’s Interior Ministry, approximately 320,000 people participated in demonstrations nationwide on Saturday, including around 70,000 in Paris.
- The government deployed approximately 70,000 police officers and gendarmes across the country to maintain public order.
- Police had reported 27 arrests by 2 PM, significantly fewer than the 217 arrests recorded at the same time during the previous Saturday’s demonstrations.
Why Are People Protesting?
The protest movement initially gained momentum through student demonstrations over education conditions, teacher shortages and university admission concerns. It subsequently expanded, bringing together trade unions, students, Yellow Vest supporters and other groups.
Their concerns include:
- Rising living costs and inflation.
- Economic inequality and housing difficulties.
- Education conditions and public services.
- Allegations of excessive police force.
- Protection of civil liberties and the right to demonstrate.
Further Demonstrations Expected
- Student organisations and trade unions have indicated plans for further protests and possible school and university blockades in the coming days. A nationwide demonstration involving workers and unions has also been announced for November 5.
- French authorities remain alert amid concerns about further clashes and damage to public and private property.
Business Galaxy | International News
