Hundreds of thousands protest across France ahead of expected general strike
More than 320,000 people joined nationwide demonstrations in France over the rising cost of living and poor public services, the third such weekend in a row. Protests also took place in Albania, Germany and Italy as young people take to the streets across Europe.
Hundreds of thousands of people took part in nationwide demonstrations in France against the rising cost of living and poor public services. It was the third consecutive weekend of such protests, and the country is now preparing for a general strike in the coming days. Similar demonstrations have been reported elsewhere in Europe, where young people are taking to the streets.
Arrests and clashes in Paris
According to France's interior ministry, more than 320,000 people demonstrated around the country and at least 290 protesters were arrested. Police estimate that about 70,000 people marched in Paris alone. In the capital, officers fired tear gas at protesters and clashes broke out.
Authorities had made extensive preparations to avoid a repeat of the violence, rioting and looting that occurred two weeks earlier.
Protests elsewhere in Europe
Demonstrations were also held in Albania, Germany and Italy. The BBC's correspondent James Waterhouse reports that young people are taking to the streets across the continent.
The source report does not give further detail on the specific demands of protesters outside France, nor does it specify the date of the general strike.
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