Violent Protests Sweep France as 1,800 Are Arrested
Protests over living costs, inequality and failing schools spread across France on Saturday. Police fired tear gas and made dozens of arrests in several cities.
200,000 people expected nationwide, including 40,000 in Paris, a police source said.
61 arrests in Paris by 11 a.m., according to authorities.
100-plus arrests in Paris by 1 p.m., police said, mostly for weapons.
900-plus police injured in recent weeks of school protests.
Why it matters: The movement began last month at high schools in northern Paris over teacher absences and run-down buildings. It has grown into a national protest against inequality and weak public spending.
French borrowing costs are at their highest in about 20 years.
Organizers drew in the CGT union and calls to revive the Yellow Vests.
The story so far
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Where they split: Coverage divides over whether the main story is a broad grievance movement and police force against protesters, or rioting and Macron's attendance at a Celine Dion concert the night before.
Center coverage, 38 sources: The center sees a country bracing for mass rallies rooted in prices, inequality and schools.
What’s next: Interior Minister Laurent Nunez said stun grenades, suspended for student protests, could be used Saturday. Police banned rallies near the Elysee, the prime minister's office and the Champs-Elysees.
An officer was charged Tuesday with aggravated violence over a rubber bullet that blinded a 16-year-old.
The police watchdog is reviewing at least two dozen alleged police violence cases.
How large will turnout grow beyond the police estimate of 200,000?
Will the government's claim that France Unbowed inflamed the protests hold up? The party denies it.
Will the unrest shift positions ahead of next year's presidential election?