Fewer participants in new demos in France

In France, thousands of people once again responded to a protest call from trade unions, youth organizations and the yellow vest movement. Compared to previous weekends and the protests on Thursday, this time there were apparently significantly fewer participants. French Interior Ministry circles said that at 2 p.m., before the central protest marches set off, there were around 7,000 people across the country.

Quiet location, isolated arrests

Overall, the situation is calm and under control, but 18 people have been arrested. In order to protect the city centers after the serious riots in October, demonstrations are banned in some places and districts. In Lyon, for example, according to media reports, people still gathered for a demonstration without official registration and the police used tear gas.

In Paris, a yellow vest rally was not allowed, but the union demonstration was. On the central Republic Square in the capital, from where an approved protest march started, many people played music, sang and danced.

“Young people are still angry”

The French are protesting against, among other things, the high cost of living and problems in the education system. UNEF student union general secretary Manon Moret said young people remained determined and angry. The government did not respond to their demands.

On Monday, Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu wants to meet for a social conference with employee and employer associations as well as for discussions with representatives of high school and university students. Further protests are already planned for Tuesday.