French Protests Over School Funding and Living Costs Turn Violent in Paris

Massive protests erupted across France on Saturday over school funding and the rising cost of living, with police making nearly 1,000 arrests as violence broke out in Paris and other cities. The demonstrations pose a major challenge to President Emmanuel Macron's government. Over 400,000 people marched nationwide, according to the Interior Ministry, though the CGT union estimated nearly 800,000. In Paris, masked protesters threw objects at police, who responded with tear gas and water cannons. Violence also flared in Marseille, Lyon, and other cities. The protests began last month over staffing at a Paris high school and have grown into a broader movement. Student groups demand more university places and funding, while workers seek relief from rising energy costs. The unrest comes ahead of presidential elections in May.