In pictures: France protests draw 146,000 as clashes erupt for fourth straight weekend

Protests over the cost of living and public services drew demonstrators across France for a fourth consecutive weekend, with clashes between some protesters and police. The unrest highlights the government’s challenge in responding to public anger while trying to control public finances.

The Interior Ministry counted 146,000 demonstrators nationwide, including 46,000 in Paris, while a youth union alliance estimated 250,000 nationally and 75,000 in the capital. At least 360 people were arrested, and police used tear gas in Paris; turnout was below the previous three weekends and the 575,000 counted at union-led protests on 5 November. The demonstrations began in late September, and follow lawmakers’ rejection of the revenue section of the 2027 budget; Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu is due to meet labour and employer representatives on Monday.