France witnessed widespread protests on Saturday over rising living costs, high fuel prices, inequality and deteriorating public services. Clashes broke out between protesters and police in several cities, while incidents of arson, vandalism and attempted looting were also reported.

The French Interior Ministry said 272 people had been arrested by mid-afternoon following violent incidents across the country.

Student Protests Grow Into a Nationwide Movement

The latest unrest began last month with protests at several high schools in the poorer northern suburbs of Paris. Students initially protested against teacher shortages and deteriorating school facilities, but the movement gradually expanded to broader concerns over inequality, government spending, living costs and the quality of public services.

Lola, a 19-year-old protester in Paris, said the cost of living had become unbearable and fuel prices were too high. She said students across France were demanding more teachers and better learning conditions.

Many demonstrators wore bright yellow safety vests while blocking roads, recalling France’s Yellow Vest movement, which began in 2018 over fuel taxes and rising living costs before expanding into a broader campaign over economic hardship and inequality.

Clashes Reported Across Major Cities

According to the Interior Ministry, violent incidents were reported in Paris, Marseille, Rennes, Toulouse and Angers. Authorities said masked individuals were involved in attempted looting, clashes with law enforcement and fires involving street furniture. Public buildings and media offices were also targeted, according to the ministry.

In Paris, police used tear gas and water cannons to disperse groups of protesters at Place de la République. Several cars and a newspaper kiosk were set on fire during the unrest.

In Marseille, protesters briefly entered the city hall and several shops and a municipal police station were damaged. The city’s mayor said additional police would be deployed following discussions with the prime minister and interior minister.

In Lyon, a tourist office was set on fire as tensions escalated between protesters and police.

Macron Calls for Calm

President Emmanuel Macron urged protesters to remain calm on Friday as his presidency enters its final stretch. France is facing growing political divisions and economic pressure.

The government’s efforts to reduce public debt have failed to fully reassure investors, with French government borrowing costs reaching their highest level in more than two decades, according to reports.

The police response has also come under scrutiny following injuries among demonstrators, with investigations into alleged police violence underway.