53 police injured, 448 arrested in France protests

Protests swept across France on Thursday over rising living costs, stagnant wages and proposed cuts to public spending.

According to the Interior Ministry, more than 600,000 people joined the demonstrations nationwide, while the CGT trade union estimated the turnout at 1.6 million.

The ministry said 53 police officers were injured, 86 fires were reported and 448 protesters were arrested over clashes, property damage and other alleged offences.

The protests, which began in mid-September over education reforms and teacher shortages, later expanded to include demands for higher wages and lower living costs.

Students led the demonstrations, joined by teachers, healthcare workers, railway employees and other professionals.

CGT Secretary-General Sophie Binet called for a 10 per cent increase in the minimum wage and higher wages and pensions.

Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu is scheduled to meet trade unions and employers’ organisations on November 9.

-AJM