French Mass Protests Erupt Over Living Costs and Inequality

Mass protests against high living costs and social inequality have erupted across France, with authorities bracing for up to 170,000 demonstrators nationwide. The Interior Ministry recorded 140 protest actions with over 32,000 participants by midday, and 166 arrests have been made. Police used tear gas, batons, and water cannons in Paris, Lyon, and Strasbourg, while demonstrators in Marseille attempted to enter a police station and looted shops. The protests originated from social media under the slogan "On en a marre!" (We've had enough), with the CGT union joining calls. Participants include students, nurses, firefighters, and retirees, driven by rising fuel, food, and energy prices, school crises, and agricultural concerns. The government fears a revival of the Yellow Vest movement, which shook France in 2018-2019.