110,000 rally in peaceful Paris march as clashes hit other French cities
French police say at least 110,000 people joined a peaceful march in Paris on Saturday, while clashes broke out in Lyon, Lille, Toulouse and Nantes. About 70,000 officers were deployed nationwide.
At least 110,000 people took part in a peaceful march in Paris on Saturday, 24 October, according to French police. Demonstrations are under way across France, with Yellow Vests movement supporters, trade unions and students taking part. Protesters are calling for greater purchasing power, protection of public services, and fiscal and social justice. The movement has spread nationwide amid broader anger over the rising cost of living.
The mood was tenser elsewhere. Clashes erupted in Lyon, Lille, Toulouse and Nantes, where police fired tear gas at protesters.
Security measures
Around 70,000 police and other security personnel were deployed to marches across the country on Saturday. Interior Minister Laurent Nunez warned that calls for violence and looting were already circulating on social media.
Authorities tightened restrictions and banned certain protests in some major cities, including Lyon and Marseille.
What happened the day before
On Friday, French President Emmanuel Macron convened a defence council of senior ministers and officials. He also met representatives of student unions, who called for more protests.
The developments are being followed by the news agencies AFP, Reuters and AP, as well as France 24.
