France sees new round of Yellow Vest, student protests

France’s fourth weekend of demonstrations over the cost of living drew fewer people than expected, but clashes with police broke out in several cities. The protests reflect continuing public anger over living costs and government policy, as President Emmanuel Macron’s administration faces pressure from students, workers and unions.

The Interior Ministry counted 146,000 protesters nationwide, including 46,000 in Paris, while organisers put the total above 250,000; both figures were below last weekend’s turnout. Authorities reported about 350 arrests and deployed 70,000 police and security personnel. Students and unions marched in Paris for education improvements, higher wages and tax reforms, while Yellow Vest activists held a banned gathering nearby. France’s public debt stands at 119% of GDP, and the prime minister was due to meet unions on Monday.