Nationwide protests in France against high prices and fraying of social security system
Mobilisation follows calls on social media to revive the gilets jaunes movement that emerged in 2018
TL;DR
- Protests have begun across France against high prices and the weakening of social security.
- The demonstrations are inspired by the 2018 gilets jaunes (yellow vests) movement.
- Initial protests started in schools in Paris, expanding to a national movement against inequality and falling standards.
- Labor unions like the CGT support the protests, calling for wage increases, lower prices, and protected public services.
- Tens of thousands are expected to participate in hundreds of planned protests nationwide.
- Protesters are wearing hi-vis vests, a nod to the previous yellow vest movement.
- Concerns include the cost of living, fuel prices, and conditions in high schools.
- President Macron has appealed for calm and respect for people and property while acknowledging the right to protest.
- Hundreds of protest actions and marches are anticipated, including spontaneous gatherings.
- Police have banned some gatherings and closed MĂ©tro stations in central Paris.
- Recent weeks have seen thousands of arrests and injuries during student protests.
- The use of a police stun grenade has been suspended after a teenager lost a hand.
- Climate activist Greta Thunberg joined students at a school near Paris.