PARIS, France- French President Emmanuel Macron has vowed to prosecute and punish people responsible for attacks, looting and vandalism during nationwide demonstrations over the cost of living and conditions in schools.
“There is no room for violence in our Republic,” Macron said in a message posted on X after clashes broke out in several cities on Saturday.
He said people who attacked prefectures and businesses, damaged property and looted town halls would face legal action.
Macron also voiced support for police and other law enforcement officers, describing them as “guarantors of the right to demonstrate.”
He called for unity against what he termed “sowers of chaos,” saying they sought to undermine state institutions and prevent peaceful protesters from making their demands heard.
The demonstrations drew hundreds of thousands of people across France.
Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez said about 550,000 people took part in 110 marches, while the CGT labour union and organisers estimated the turnout at 800,000.
The ministry said about 400 people had been arrested nationwide.
Many marches were peaceful, but violence flared on their fringes.
In Paris, police used tear gas and water cannon as masked demonstrators threw fireworks and other objects. Cars and bins were set alight, and shops were looted.
In Lyon, the city’s tourist office was set on fire. Protesters also broke into Marseille’s city hall, while attacks and damage were reported in other cities.
Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu said the government would not be intimidated by the violence.
He blamed far-left groups and criminals for exploiting the demonstrations, while protesters said their concerns included rising prices, fuel costs, inequality and a lack of resources in schools.
The protests brought together students, trade unionists, farmers, teachers and members of the Yellow Vest movement.
Student demonstrations that began last month over teacher shortages and school conditions have broadened into a wider movement focused on living standards and public spending.
Macron’s response came as police tactics at demonstrations also faced scrutiny.
French authorities are investigating allegations of police violence during earlier student protests, while Reuters reported that a protester lost a hand during clashes on Saturday after reportedly trying to pick up a stun grenade.
