Violence erupted across France on Saturday as demonstrations over economic hardship, conditions in schools and the rising cost of living escalated, leaving at least 1,200 people arrested.
The French government described the unrest as an “escalation in violence” as an estimated 550,000 people took to the streets across the country.
In Paris, clashes between protesters and riot police continued into the evening, with security forces deploying tear gas and water cannon to disperse crowds.
Several buildings were set on fire in the capital and other parts of the country. In Limoges, a major fire at the town hall caused part of the building’s roof to collapse.
Looting was also reported in several cities, while acts of vandalism targeted municipal buildings and businesses.
