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WION Speed News | France: Day of protests against pension reforms

Thousand of people in France are continuing to protest against the pension reform plans imposed by the government. The unions are hoping to match a mass turnout as more than a million people marched in opposition to the plans.

France protests rage on! Unions ready to call for mass turnout

French Economy and Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire has said that the French government has relied too much on external consultants such as U.S. firm McKinsey.

France went 'too far' in relying on consultants like McKinsey, says France's Le Maire

Thousands of people across France marched against what organisers said was going influence of the far-right ideas ahead of presidential elections due next year.

Members of more than 100 left-leaning organisations participated in 'Liberty March' in about 140 cities and towns across the country.

The march was the first opportunity for the left to come out in the streets after a year and a half of Covid-19 restrictions.

Organisers reported 70,000 in Paris and 150,000 around the nation.

The protester vented against issues like recent legislation that they say chips away at liberties. A recently-passed law that could see prosecutions for publishing footage of police officers in action was criticised.

Far-right ideas "are no longer the monopoly of far-right parties and ... have now largely penetrated the political class," said Benoit Hamon, who was a Socialist presidential candidate in 2017.

In Paris, hard-left leader Jean-Luc Melenchon had flour thrown in his face as he spoke to reporters.

The move against the veteran politician, who has been accused of fuelling conspiracy theories ahead of next year's elections, came days after President Emmanuel Macron was slapped in the face while shaking hands with people on a regional visit.

Group partaking included Socialists, Communists, ecologists and unions, among others.

(With inputs from agencies)

Thousands of people across France marched against what organisers said was going influence of the far-right ideas ahead of presidential elections due next year. Members of more than 100 left-leaning organisations participated in 'Liberty March' in about 140 cities and towns across the country.

Thousands of people across France marched against what organisers said was going influence of the far-right ideas ahead of presidential elections due next year. Members of more than 100 left-leaning organisations participated in 'Liberty March' in about 140 cities and towns across the country. The march was the first opportunity for the left to come out in the streets after a year and a half of Covid-19 restrictions. Organisers reported 70,000 in Paris and 150,000 around the nation. The protester vented against issues like recent legislation that they say chips away at liberties. A recently-passed law that could see prosecutions for publishing footage of police officers in action was criticised. Far-right ideas "are no longer the monopoly of far-right parties and ... have now largely penetrated the political class," said Benoit Hamon, who was a Socialist presidential candidate in 2017. In Paris, hard-left leader Jean-Luc Melenchon had flour thrown in his face as he spoke to reporters. The move against the veteran politician, who has been accused of fuelling conspiracy theories ahead of next year's elections, came days after President Emmanuel Macron was slapped in the face while shaking hands with people on a regional visit. Group partaking included Socialists, Communists, ecologists and unions, among others. (With inputs from agencies)

Thousands protest far-right ideas in France

For freedom: France takes to streets against new security bill

Police deployed a water cannon at protesters in Paris on Saturday (December 12) at a tense demonstration against a draft law that would curb rules for filming police officers.

Police fire water cannon at tense Paris 'security bill' protest

As France observed 'National Homage Day' for victims of terror, Emmanuel Macron had a message for protesters worldwide: 'I understand the outrage, but I will never accept violence over cartoons.' Palki Sharma Upadhyay gets you the story.

Gravitas: Macron's message to anti-France protesters

In a development that shows the closeness between India and France, New Delhi has come in full support for the French President Emmanuel Macron who is facing uncharitable remarks particularly after by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan.

India sides with Emmanuel Macron, condemns Erdogan's remarks

Protesters in Pakistan's eastern city of Lahore on Monday (October 26) burnt the French flag and chanted slogans against French President Emmanuel Macron against the images being displayed in France of the Prophet Mohammad, which some Muslims consider blasphemous.

Protests continue in Islamic world against France over cartoon row

Thousands of people gathered across France on Sunday to support teachers and defend freedom of expression after the killing of Samuel Paty, a history teacher beheaded by a suspected Islamist on Friday.

Tribute planned for beheaded teacher in France; 11 people arrested

French healthcare workers across France protested against exhausting working conditions during the coronavirus pandemic on Thursday (October 15) and demanded the government hire more personnel.

WION Dispatch: French healthcare workers protest in Paris

Protesters gathered near Eiffel Tower in Paris to demonstrate their opposition to human rights violations in China. More than 300 protesters took to Trocadero square and expressed their anger against Chinese Communist Party on Thursday.

The protesters belonged to different groups like Tibet associations, the Uyghur Association of France, SWouth Mongolians, Falange Gong, Hong Kong dissidents and Taiwanese. The protesters gave a clarion call to global leaders to resist China. Each group carried banners and flags representing their group and raised slogans against China. &nbsp;

Leaders of these groups called on the international community to support their struggle against China. Some protesters even carried 'Free Hong Kong' placards and many wore masks with 'Free Tibet printed on it.

The protest, which lasted more than three hours ended with all protesters lighting up the Paris night with their mobile phone torches and singing "We shall overcome".

The Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China also lent its support to the protest. Meanwhile, a similar kind of protest was held in Japan against the Chinese Communist Party. These protests come on the occasion of the 71st National Day of the People`s Republic of China 
&nbsp;

Protesters gathered near Eiffel Tower in Paris to demonstrate their opposition to human rights violations in China. More than 300 protesters took to Trocadero square and expressed their anger against Chinese Communist Party on Thursday.

Protesters gathered near Eiffel Tower in Paris to demonstrate their opposition to human rights violations in China. More than 300 protesters took to Trocadero square and expressed their anger against Chinese Communist Party on Thursday. The protesters belonged to different groups like Tibet associations, the Uyghur Association of France, SWouth Mongolians, Falange Gong, Hong Kong dissidents and Taiwanese. The protesters gave a clarion call to global leaders to resist China. Each group carried banners and flags representing their group and raised slogans against China. Leaders of these groups called on the international community to support their struggle against China. Some protesters even carried 'Free Hong Kong' placards and many wore masks with 'Free Tibet printed on it. The protest, which lasted more than three hours ended with all protesters lighting up the Paris night with their mobile phone torches and singing "We shall overcome". The Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China also lent its support to the protest. Meanwhile, a similar kind of protest was held in Japan against the Chinese Communist Party. These protests come on the occasion of the 71st National Day of the People`s Republic of China

Anti-China protest near Eiffel Tower decries human rights violations

The protests over the killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis, United States has reached across the world, where several demonstrators denouncing racism.&nbsp;

And this protest wave has given France a demand justice for Adama Traore, who was also a victim of police brutality and his killing was similar to that of Floyd.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/protesters-across-the-us-march-again-demanding-police-reforms-after-floyd-killing-304116">Protesters across the US march again, demanding police reforms after Floyd killing</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/protesters-across-the-us-march-again-demanding-police-reforms-after-floyd-killing-304116">&nbsp;</a>

"They died in exactly the same way," Adam's sister Assa Traore said, reported Reuters.&nbsp;

"Adama carried the weight of three officers on his body."

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-street-artist-banksy-pays-tribute-to-george-floyd-with-new-artwork-303896">British street artist Banksy pays tribute to George Floyd with new artwork</a>

Adama, also a black man like Floyd, ran from the police during an argument over an identity check after he celebrated his birthday on July 19, 2016.&nbsp;

He was nabbed after three police officers pinned him on the ground by using their combined body weight. He died as soon as the officials took him to a police station.&nbsp;

His death triggered huge protests in France, where police's high-handed actions and racism remain unaddressed.&nbsp;

Recently, the content of a Facebook group was leaked where police officers used sexist and racist terms and mocked victims of police brutality.

Even after four years, there has not been any prosecution as medical experts still couldn't conclude whether Adama died of police actions or prevailing medical condition. &nbsp;

The protests that have all faded have revived recently in France, sparked by the murder of Floyd.&nbsp;

Last week, thousands in France protested throughtout the week, with chants saying "let us breathe", "no justice, no peace".&nbsp;

"It’s a strong, powerful echo," Assa said.&nbsp;

Adama's friends and family members are urging for support for holding nationwide protests in France.&nbsp;

"All the light shed on the George Floyd case has served as a reminder of the numerous other victims who died in the same conditions as George Floyd," said actor Almamy Kanoute, who is a part of the campaign that demands justice for Adama. &nbsp;

"We’re not saying the police in France are the same as in the United States. But the deadly techniques used in the United States are the same ones as in some European countries, the same ones that kill the same type of people."

The protests over the killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis, United States has reached across the world, where several demonstrators denouncing racism. And this protest wave has given France a demand justice for Adama Traore, who was also a victim of police brutality and his killing was similar to that of Floyd.

The protests over the killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis, United States has reached across the world, where several demonstrators denouncing racism. And this protest wave has given France a demand justice for Adama Traore, who was also a victim of police brutality and his killing was similar to that of Floyd. Also read | Protesters across the US march again, demanding police reforms after Floyd killing "They died in exactly the same way," Adam's sister Assa Traore said, reported Reuters. "Adama carried the weight of three officers on his body." Also read | British street artist Banksy pays tribute to George Floyd with new artwork Adama, also a black man like Floyd, ran from the police during an argument over an identity check after he celebrated his birthday on July 19, 2016. He was nabbed after three police officers pinned him on the ground by using their combined body weight. He died as soon as the officials took him to a police station. His death triggered huge protests in France, where police's high-handed actions and racism remain unaddressed. Recently, the content of a Facebook group was leaked where police officers used sexist and racist terms and mocked victims of police brutality. Even after four years, there has not been any prosecution as medical experts still couldn't conclude whether Adama died of police actions or prevailing medical condition. The protests that have all faded have revived recently in France, sparked by the murder of Floyd. Last week, thousands in France protested throughtout the week, with chants saying "let us breathe", "no justice, no peace". "It’s a strong, powerful echo," Assa said. Adama's friends and family members are urging for support for holding nationwide protests in France. "All the light shed on the George Floyd case has served as a reminder of the numerous other victims who died in the same conditions as George Floyd," said actor Almamy Kanoute, who is a part of the campaign that demands justice for Adama. "We’re not saying the police in France are the same as in the United States. But the deadly techniques used in the United States are the same ones as in some European countries, the same ones that kill the same type of people."

Meet Adama Traore, whose death identical to George Floyd is triggering protests in France

Hundreds of thousands of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-strikes-government-stays-firm-on-pension-reforms-as-mass-protests-to-continue-268724">French protesters </a>took to the streets Tuesday in a pension reform standoff that has sparked nearly two weeks of crippling transport strikes, with the government vowing it will not give in to union demands to drop the overhaul.

Police said they fired tear gas in Paris after protesters hurled projectiles at them, with 30 people arrested in the French capital.

Pressure is growing on President Emmanuel Macron just days before the Christmas break and late Tuesday he named a new pensions chief to lead fresh talks with the unions set for Wednesday.

Lawmaker Laurent Pietraszewski will oversee the negotiations, replacing the last top official who was forced to resign on Monday when it emerged he had failed to declare income.

Teachers, hospital workers and other public employees joined transport workers on Tuesday for the third big day of marches since the dispute began on December 5.

The interior ministry said about 615,000 people took part in more than 100 rallies countrywide, including 76,000 demonstrators in Paris, where the Eiffel Tower was closed due to the protest.

The hardline CGT union tweeted that 1.8 million demonstrators had turned out across the country, a figure higher than the 1.5 million it claimed for the last big protest day on December 5.

The CGT said electricity workers had cut power to some 50,000 homes near Bordeaux and 40,000 in Lyon overnight, warning that bigger cuts could follow.

Later the CGT and four other trade unions issued a joint ultimatum to the government, saying local industrial action would continue with no let-up for Christmas, unless it responds to their requests "in the coming hours".

PM's determination 'is total'

The day of action was "a total success", said CGT leader Philippe Martinez. "Despite the government's attempts at division, the people remain mobilised," he added.

The government has insisted it will push through a single points-based pension system and end the current patchwork of 42 separate schemes that offer early retirement to many in the public sector.

It says the new system will be fairer and more transparent, improving pensions for women and low earners in particular.

"My determination, and that of the government and the majority, is total," Prime Minister Edouard Philippe told parliament on the eve of fresh talks with unions.

Critics say the changes could force millions of people to work beyond the official retirement age of 62 -- one of the lowest in Europe -- by setting a "pivot age" of 64 that would ensure a full pension.

"What scares us about the points system is that we don't know how much a point is worth," said Kelly Grosset-Curtet, a 21-year-old student marching in Lyon.

Laurent Berger, head of France's largest union, the moderate CFDT, took part in the Paris protest and described the pension reform measures as "terribly unjust".

'Mess up Christmas'&nbsp;

Commuters in Paris and other big cities have borne the brunt of the transport stoppages so far but holiday travel plans are now at risk, with just one in four high-speed TGV trains running on Tuesday.

Strike organisers are hoping for a repeat of 1995 when they forced the government to back down on pension reform after three weeks of metro and rail stoppages just before Christmas.

Some 62 percent of respondents to a poll for the RTL broadcaster said they support the strike but 69 percent said they wanted a "Christmas truce".

"Nobody wants to mess up Christmas, not the strikers nor workers nor the French who want to be with their families," Laurent Escure of the UNSA union told France 2 television.

"But this is entirely the government's fault."&nbsp;

Train operator SNCF has warned that it may now be too late to get services back to normal by December 25. But it assured that all TGV ticket holders would be able to travel over the pre-Christmas weekend, though with some changes to timetables.

Several universities have cancelled or postponed year-end exams, and both the Garnier and Bastille Operas in Paris have cancelled dozens of performances, costing millions of euros in lost ticket sales.

"This is absurd," Sylvie Baheux, a 55-year-old gym teacher, said at Paris' Saint-Lazare station on Tuesday, adding that her usual one-hour commute to work had doubled during the strike.

"It's complicated but this pension reform needed to be done," she told AFP.

Opposition leaders have urged the government to rethink the pension reform plans. &nbsp;

The travel misery is set to continue on the 14th day of the strike Wednesday, with half of the capital's 16 metro lines closed, most of the rest severely curtailed, and the number of regional and suburban trains slashed.

Hundreds of thousands of French protesters took to the streets Tuesday in a pension reform standoff that has sparked nearly two weeks of crippling transport strikes, with the government vowing it will not give in to union demands to drop the overhaul.

Hundreds of thousands of French protesters took to the streets Tuesday in a pension reform standoff that has sparked nearly two weeks of crippling transport strikes, with the government vowing it will not give in to union demands to drop the overhaul. Police said they fired tear gas in Paris after protesters hurled projectiles at them, with 30 people arrested in the French capital. Pressure is growing on President Emmanuel Macron just days before the Christmas break and late Tuesday he named a new pensions chief to lead fresh talks with the unions set for Wednesday. Lawmaker Laurent Pietraszewski will oversee the negotiations, replacing the last top official who was forced to resign on Monday when it emerged he had failed to declare income. Teachers, hospital workers and other public employees joined transport workers on Tuesday for the third big day of marches since the dispute began on December 5. The interior ministry said about 615,000 people took part in more than 100 rallies countrywide, including 76,000 demonstrators in Paris, where the Eiffel Tower was closed due to the protest. The hardline CGT union tweeted that 1.8 million demonstrators had turned out across the country, a figure higher than the 1.5 million it claimed for the last big protest day on December 5. The CGT said electricity workers had cut power to some 50,000 homes near Bordeaux and 40,000 in Lyon overnight, warning that bigger cuts could follow. Later the CGT and four other trade unions issued a joint ultimatum to the government, saying local industrial action would continue with no let-up for Christmas, unless it responds to their requests "in the coming hours". PM's determination 'is total' The day of action was "a total success", said CGT leader Philippe Martinez. "Despite the government's attempts at division, the people remain mobilised," he added. The government has insisted it will push through a single points-based pension system and end the current patchwork of 42 separate schemes that offer early retirement to many in the public sector. It says the new system will be fairer and more transparent, improving pensions for women and low earners in particular. "My determination, and that of the government and the majority, is total," Prime Minister Edouard Philippe told parliament on the eve of fresh talks with unions. Critics say the changes could force millions of people to work beyond the official retirement age of 62 -- one of the lowest in Europe -- by setting a "pivot age" of 64 that would ensure a full pension. "What scares us about the points system is that we don't know how much a point is worth," said Kelly Grosset-Curtet, a 21-year-old student marching in Lyon. Laurent Berger, head of France's largest union, the moderate CFDT, took part in the Paris protest and described the pension reform measures as "terribly unjust". 'Mess up Christmas' Commuters in Paris and other big cities have borne the brunt of the transport stoppages so far but holiday travel plans are now at risk, with just one in four high-speed TGV trains running on Tuesday. Strike organisers are hoping for a repeat of 1995 when they forced the government to back down on pension reform after three weeks of metro and rail stoppages just before Christmas. Some 62 percent of respondents to a poll for the RTL broadcaster said they support the strike but 69 percent said they wanted a "Christmas truce". "Nobody wants to mess up Christmas, not the strikers nor workers nor the French who want to be with their families," Laurent Escure of the UNSA union told France 2 television. "But this is entirely the government's fault." Train operator SNCF has warned that it may now be too late to get services back to normal by December 25. But it assured that all TGV ticket holders would be able to travel over the pre-Christmas weekend, though with some changes to timetables. Several universities have cancelled or postponed year-end exams, and both the Garnier and Bastille Operas in Paris have cancelled dozens of performances, costing millions of euros in lost ticket sales. "This is absurd," Sylvie Baheux, a 55-year-old gym teacher, said at Paris' Saint-Lazare station on Tuesday, adding that her usual one-hour commute to work had doubled during the strike. "It's complicated but this pension reform needed to be done," she told AFP. Opposition leaders have urged the government to rethink the pension reform plans. The travel misery is set to continue on the 14th day of the strike Wednesday, with half of the capital's 16 metro lines closed, most of the rest severely curtailed, and the number of regional and suburban trains slashed.

Hundreds of thousands protest in France over pension reform plans

French commuters and tourists braced for a fifth day of public transport chaos Monday as the government prepared to respond to widespread anger over pension reform that has sparked open-ended walkouts.

President Emmanuel Macron, Prime Minister Edouard Philippe and senior cabinet ministers met late Sunday to discuss the contentious reform, which the country's powerful labour unions claim will force many to work longer for a smaller retirement payout.

As both the government and unions vowed to stand firm, businesses started counting the costs of the strike which began last Thursday when some 800,000 people took to the streets across France in a mass rejection of plans to introduce a single, points-based pension scheme, unifying 42 existing plans.

The stoppages stranded commuters closed schools and hit tourism and Christmas retail.

Many people opted to take days off or to work from home, but thousands had no choice but to squeeze into perilously overcrowded suburban trains and metros whose numbers were slashed to a minimum.

The biggest labour unrest in years came as France's economy is already dented by more than a year of weekly anti-government demonstrations by so-called "yellow vest" activists protesting unemployment and waning spending power.

Many are opposed to Macron's plans for putting the country on a solid economic footing, of which the retirement overhaul forms a major part.

Retailers in 'jeopardy'

Business owners fear for their bottom line, with concerns over delivery of goods if the strike continues, and client numbers dwindling at the height of the Christmas shopping season.

On Thursday and Friday, strikers blocked several fuel depots around France, causing long petrol station queues as worried motorists stocked up.

The first day of the stoppage already caused an average 30 per cent drop in sales, according to the Alliance of Commerce which represents 27,000 supermarkets and clothing and shoe stores with almost 200,000 workers.

The Union of Local Enterprises warned that prolonged unrest "could be fatal for many" small businesses.

A hotel association said reservations in the larger Paris region dropped by 30-40 per cent on the first day of the strike.

But it was not only local travel that was affected. Regional and international trains, including the Thalys and Eurostar, were also hobbled by the unrest, and several flights were cancelled on the first days of the strike.

The chaos was set to continue on Monday, with the three main rail unions calling for industrial action to be stepped up ahead of another general strike and mass protests on Tuesday.

"In the coming days, we recommend avoiding public transport," said the website of the RATP train, tram, bus and metro company on which some 10 million passengers in larger Paris area rely daily to get to work.

Trains connecting the suburbs to the centre of Paris will only have a third to half of the normal number of trains running at peak hours Monday, the company said.

Ten out of the RATP's 16 metro lines will be shut, four will offer limited services, and only the two driverless lines will run as scheduled, but with a "risk of congestion" during peak hours.

All 14 metro lines that rely on drivers were closed on Sunday.

Inter-city rail operator SNCF warned of potentially "dangerous" overcrowding, with availability reduced to about 15-20 per cent.

Travel will be "extremely complicated," said SNCF spokeswoman Agnes Ogier, urging commuters to make other arrangements, including carpooling. She did not expect any improvement by Tuesday.

Two-thirds to three-quarters of high-speed international trains will run as scheduled.

The capital's main roads, meanwhile, were expected to be more congested than usual as many non-striking workers opt to drive to work.

A week of conflict likely lies ahead, with Jean-Paul Delevoye, whom Macron appointed to lead the pension reform project, set to unveil the outcome of his months-long consultations on Monday, followed by Philippe announcing the final details of the proposed reform plan on Wednesday.

French commuters and tourists braced for a fifth day of public transport chaos Monday as the government prepared to respond to widespread anger over pension reform that has sparked open-ended walkouts.

French commuters and tourists braced for a fifth day of public transport chaos Monday as the government prepared to respond to widespread anger over pension reform that has sparked open-ended walkouts. President Emmanuel Macron, Prime Minister Edouard Philippe and senior cabinet ministers met late Sunday to discuss the contentious reform, which the country's powerful labour unions claim will force many to work longer for a smaller retirement payout. As both the government and unions vowed to stand firm, businesses started counting the costs of the strike which began last Thursday when some 800,000 people took to the streets across France in a mass rejection of plans to introduce a single, points-based pension scheme, unifying 42 existing plans. The stoppages stranded commuters closed schools and hit tourism and Christmas retail. Many people opted to take days off or to work from home, but thousands had no choice but to squeeze into perilously overcrowded suburban trains and metros whose numbers were slashed to a minimum. The biggest labour unrest in years came as France's economy is already dented by more than a year of weekly anti-government demonstrations by so-called "yellow vest" activists protesting unemployment and waning spending power. Many are opposed to Macron's plans for putting the country on a solid economic footing, of which the retirement overhaul forms a major part. Retailers in 'jeopardy' Business owners fear for their bottom line, with concerns over delivery of goods if the strike continues, and client numbers dwindling at the height of the Christmas shopping season. On Thursday and Friday, strikers blocked several fuel depots around France, causing long petrol station queues as worried motorists stocked up. The first day of the stoppage already caused an average 30 per cent drop in sales, according to the Alliance of Commerce which represents 27,000 supermarkets and clothing and shoe stores with almost 200,000 workers. The Union of Local Enterprises warned that prolonged unrest "could be fatal for many" small businesses. A hotel association said reservations in the larger Paris region dropped by 30-40 per cent on the first day of the strike. But it was not only local travel that was affected. Regional and international trains, including the Thalys and Eurostar, were also hobbled by the unrest, and several flights were cancelled on the first days of the strike. The chaos was set to continue on Monday, with the three main rail unions calling for industrial action to be stepped up ahead of another general strike and mass protests on Tuesday. "In the coming days, we recommend avoiding public transport," said the website of the RATP train, tram, bus and metro company on which some 10 million passengers in larger Paris area rely daily to get to work. Trains connecting the suburbs to the centre of Paris will only have a third to half of the normal number of trains running at peak hours Monday, the company said. Ten out of the RATP's 16 metro lines will be shut, four will offer limited services, and only the two driverless lines will run as scheduled, but with a "risk of congestion" during peak hours. All 14 metro lines that rely on drivers were closed on Sunday. Inter-city rail operator SNCF warned of potentially "dangerous" overcrowding, with availability reduced to about 15-20 per cent. Travel will be "extremely complicated," said SNCF spokeswoman Agnes Ogier, urging commuters to make other arrangements, including carpooling. She did not expect any improvement by Tuesday. Two-thirds to three-quarters of high-speed international trains will run as scheduled. The capital's main roads, meanwhile, were expected to be more congested than usual as many non-striking workers opt to drive to work. A week of conflict likely lies ahead, with Jean-Paul Delevoye, whom Macron appointed to lead the pension reform project, set to unveil the outcome of his months-long consultations on Monday, followed by Philippe announcing the final details of the proposed reform plan on Wednesday.

Day 5 of public transport chaos as French strike bites

Protests against single points-based pension plan.

France Protests: Protest against pension reforms

France public sector strike: Where is the unrest being felt the hardest?

Pension Reforms Spark Widespread Protests In France As The West European Country Comes To A Halt

Gravitas: France Protests: Day 2: Why are workers Angry on Macron?

French Prime Minister Edouard Philippe on Friday said that the government is "very determined" to go ahead with its <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-unions-call-for-new-protests-strikes-on-tuesday-over-pension-reforms-266676">pension reform</a>, news agency AFP reported.&nbsp;

The prime minister added that the French government would work with trade unions to introduce a single points-based <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-strike-against-macron-reforms-enters-day-two-266522">pension scheme</a>.

Philippe stressed that the proposed changes in the current pension scheme would be unveiled on Wednesday and will be introduced "progressively, without harshness," AFP reported.&nbsp;

President Emmanuel Macron-led government is facing a lot of dissent over the proposed overhaul to the existing pension scheme.&nbsp;

The French government believes&nbsp;that the new pension reform will be fair to all but will also require people to work longer and beyond the minimum pension age, which in France is 62 years.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, French unions on Friday called for strikes and mass protests next week on Tuesday. This comes after thousands took to the streets on Thursday protesting Macron-proposed retirement overhaul.

"Everybody in the street on Tuesday, December 10, for a new day... of strikes, actions and protests," Catherine Perret, a senior member of the CGT union, France's biggest public-sector union, told reporters after a meeting of four unions.

Unions' strikes and protest spilled into the second day on Friday, derailing public transport and affecting hundreds on travelers.&nbsp;

Unions argue that Macron's "universal" pension system would eliminate dozens of separate plans for public workers and will force millions of people, in both public and private sectors, to work well beyond the legal retirement age of 62.&nbsp;

French Prime Minister Edouard Philippe on Friday said that the government is "very determined" to go ahead with its pension reform, news agency AFP reported. The prime minister added that the French government would work with trade unions to introduce a single points-based pension scheme.

French Prime Minister Edouard Philippe on Friday said that the government is "very determined" to go ahead with its pension reform, news agency AFP reported. The prime minister added that the French government would work with trade unions to introduce a single points-based pension scheme. Philippe stressed that the proposed changes in the current pension scheme would be unveiled on Wednesday and will be introduced "progressively, without harshness," AFP reported. President Emmanuel Macron-led government is facing a lot of dissent over the proposed overhaul to the existing pension scheme. The French government believes that the new pension reform will be fair to all but will also require people to work longer and beyond the minimum pension age, which in France is 62 years. Meanwhile, French unions on Friday called for strikes and mass protests next week on Tuesday. This comes after thousands took to the streets on Thursday protesting Macron-proposed retirement overhaul. "Everybody in the street on Tuesday, December 10, for a new day... of strikes, actions and protests," Catherine Perret, a senior member of the CGT union, France's biggest public-sector union, told reporters after a meeting of four unions. Unions' strikes and protest spilled into the second day on Friday, derailing public transport and affecting hundreds on travelers. Unions argue that Macron's "universal" pension system would eliminate dozens of separate plans for public workers and will force millions of people, in both public and private sectors, to work well beyond the legal retirement age of 62.

'Very determined' to go ahead with pension reform: French Prime Minister Edouard Philippe

Angered over President Emmanuel Macron's pension reforms, French unions on Friday called for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-strike-against-macron-reforms-enters-day-two-266522">strikes and mass protests</a> next week on Tuesday. This comes after thousands took to the street on Thursday protesting Macron-proposed retirement overhaul.

"Everybody in the street on Tuesday, December 10, for a new day... of strikes, actions and protests," Catherine Perret, a senior member of the CGT union, France's biggest public-sector union, told reporters after a meeting of four unions.

Unions' strikes and protest spilled into the second day on Friday, derailing public transport and affecting hundreds on travelers.&nbsp;

The protesters are determined not to stay put unless Macron backs down on the controversial pension overhauls.

Unions argue that Macron's "universal" pension system would eliminate dozens of separate plans for public workers and will force millions of people, in both public and private sectors, to work well beyond the legal retirement age of 62, news agency AFP reported.&nbsp;

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In France, the minimum pension age is 62 which is also the lowest among developed countries across the globe. However, there exist over forty "special regimes" for railway workers, lawyers, opera employees and others that offer benefits like earlier retirements.

Macron-led government acknowledges that that a single pension system will have people work longer but will also be fairer to all, ensuring financial viability.

The recent strike by the unions was enough to throw the country into a state of chaos. As reported by AFP, rail operator SNCF said 90 per cent of high-speed TGV trains were again cancelled, and several airlines dropped flights including Air France, EasyJet and Ryanair.

Nine of the capital's 16 metro lines were shut and most others severely disrupted, sparking some 350 kilometres (220 miles) of traffic jams in the Paris region, well above the usual 200 km, the traffic website Sytadin reported.

A whopping 800,000 demonstrators took to the streets across the country on Thursday, the interior ministry estimated .

France, earlier this year, saw protests from teachers, hospital workers, police and firefighters as well as the "yellow vest" movement. The French have been demanding improved living standards.

(With inputs from AFP)&nbsp;

Angered over President Emmanuel Macron's pension reforms, French unions on Friday called for strikes and mass protests next week on Tuesday. This comes after thousands took to the street on Thursday protesting Macron-proposed retirement overhaul.

Angered over President Emmanuel Macron's pension reforms, French unions on Friday called for strikes and mass protests next week on Tuesday. This comes after thousands took to the street on Thursday protesting Macron-proposed retirement overhaul. "Everybody in the street on Tuesday, December 10, for a new day... of strikes, actions and protests," Catherine Perret, a senior member of the CGT union, France's biggest public-sector union, told reporters after a meeting of four unions. Unions' strikes and protest spilled into the second day on Friday, derailing public transport and affecting hundreds on travelers. The protesters are determined not to stay put unless Macron backs down on the controversial pension overhauls. Unions argue that Macron's "universal" pension system would eliminate dozens of separate plans for public workers and will force millions of people, in both public and private sectors, to work well beyond the legal retirement age of 62, news agency AFP reported. × In France, the minimum pension age is 62 which is also the lowest among developed countries across the globe. However, there exist over forty "special regimes" for railway workers, lawyers, opera employees and others that offer benefits like earlier retirements. Macron-led government acknowledges that that a single pension system will have people work longer but will also be fairer to all, ensuring financial viability. The recent strike by the unions was enough to throw the country into a state of chaos. As reported by AFP, rail operator SNCF said 90 per cent of high-speed TGV trains were again cancelled, and several airlines dropped flights including Air France, EasyJet and Ryanair. Nine of the capital's 16 metro lines were shut and most others severely disrupted, sparking some 350 kilometres (220 miles) of traffic jams in the Paris region, well above the usual 200 km, the traffic website Sytadin reported. A whopping 800,000 demonstrators took to the streets across the country on Thursday, the interior ministry estimated . France, earlier this year, saw protests from teachers, hospital workers, police and firefighters as well as the "yellow vest" movement. The French have been demanding improved living standards. (With inputs from AFP)

France: Unions call for new protests, strikes on Tuesday over pension reforms 

Tens of thousands of people took to the streets of Paris and other French cities on Saturday to protest against domestic violence, after more than 130 women are believed to have been killed by their partner or ex-partner in France this year.

In Paris, the mostly female activists chanted "Abuser, you've had it, women are in the street" and held purple placards bearing the names of female victims and slogans such as "not another murder more". Purple is a symbolic colour used by the women's rights movement.

President Emmanuel Macron expressed his solidarity after the end of the protest.

"I give my support to every woman who has experienced gender-based or sexual violence. Count on me to continue the mobilisation of the government and the entire nation in this great cause," he said on Twitter.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
J’adresse mon soutien à chaque femme qui a vécu des violences sexistes ou sexuelles. 
Comptez sur moi pour poursuivre la mobilisation du gouvernement et de la Nation entière dans cette grande cause. 
Besoin de l’engagement de chacun(e) pour <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NeRienLaisserPasser?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NeRienLaisserPasser</a>.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NousToutes?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NousToutes</a>
— Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) <a href="https://twitter.com/EmmanuelMacron/status/1198313852561174529?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 23, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Some 35,000 people participated in the march in Paris, police said.

The #NousToutes association, which organised the protests, estimated the turnout much higher at 100,000 in Paris and 150,000 across France.

The demonstrations took place two days before the government is due to publish the results of an investigation into domestic violence.

The government is also set to announce a series of new measures aimed at protecting women, the Justice and Interior Ministers and the Secretary of State for Gender Equality said in a joint opinion piece in Le Parisien daily on Saturday.

"We can and we should do better," they wrote.

A Council of Europe expert group on domestic violence (GREVIO) said this week France needed to offer better protection for victims and their children and more effective anti-violence measures.

"We cannot continue to accept that women are being murdered today with total impunity. The state must do its job to guarantee the security of all women in this country," #NousToutes activist Karine Plassard told Reuters in Paris.

Other marches took place in French cities such as Lyon, Strasbourg, Bordeaux and Lille.

"There is far too much violence against women everywhere in society, at work, in our intimate lives," said Paris demonstrator Pauline, 28. "The masculine part of the population must be aware of what they are doing to the other half."

Tens of thousands of people took to the streets of Paris and other French cities on Saturday to protest against domestic violence, after more than 130 women are believed to have been killed by their partner or ex-partner in France this year.

Tens of thousands of people took to the streets of Paris and other French cities on Saturday to protest against domestic violence, after more than 130 women are believed to have been killed by their partner or ex-partner in France this year. In Paris, the mostly female activists chanted "Abuser, you've had it, women are in the street" and held purple placards bearing the names of female victims and slogans such as "not another murder more". Purple is a symbolic colour used by the women's rights movement. President Emmanuel Macron expressed his solidarity after the end of the protest. "I give my support to every woman who has experienced gender-based or sexual violence. Count on me to continue the mobilisation of the government and the entire nation in this great cause," he said on Twitter. J’adresse mon soutien à chaque femme qui a vécu des violences sexistes ou sexuelles. Comptez sur moi pour poursuivre la mobilisation du gouvernement et de la Nation entière dans cette grande cause. Besoin de l’engagement de chacun(e) pour #NeRienLaisserPasser.#NousToutes — Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) November 23, 2019 × Some 35,000 people participated in the march in Paris, police said. The #NousToutes association, which organised the protests, estimated the turnout much higher at 100,000 in Paris and 150,000 across France. The demonstrations took place two days before the government is due to publish the results of an investigation into domestic violence. The government is also set to announce a series of new measures aimed at protecting women, the Justice and Interior Ministers and the Secretary of State for Gender Equality said in a joint opinion piece in Le Parisien daily on Saturday. "We can and we should do better," they wrote. A Council of Europe expert group on domestic violence (GREVIO) said this week France needed to offer better protection for victims and their children and more effective anti-violence measures. "We cannot continue to accept that women are being murdered today with total impunity. The state must do its job to guarantee the security of all women in this country," #NousToutes activist Karine Plassard told Reuters in Paris. Other marches took place in French cities such as Lyon, Strasbourg, Bordeaux and Lille. "There is far too much violence against women everywhere in society, at work, in our intimate lives," said Paris demonstrator Pauline, 28. "The masculine part of the population must be aware of what they are doing to the other half."

Tens of thousands march in France to condemn domestic violence

The Indian Air Force (IAF) on Saturday announced a reward of Rs 5 lakh for anyone providing credible information about the location of its missing transport aircraft AN 32.

After no breakthrough, IAF announces Rs 5 lakh reward for info about missing aircraft AN 32

Police fired tear gas at "yellow vest" demonstrators in Paris on Saturday but the turnout for round seven of the popular protests that have rocked France appeared low.

Several hundred people wearing the symbolic hi-visibility vests had gathered near the offices of several state-run television stations and the BFM TV channel in the centre of the capital shouting "Fake news" and calling for the resignation of President Emmanuel Macron.

Protesters spilled onto tram lines and lobbed projectiles at police who replied with tear gas grenades and detained several people.

Several cars were also set alight outside the offices of the Le Parisien newspaper, although a fire service spokesman said it was not clear if the blaze was linked to the protests.

Tear gas was also fired in Nantes, western France, and protests were expected in Lyon, Bordeaux and Toulouse.

In the southern city of Marseille, police said around 1,000 protesters turned out, amid cries of "Macron out".

The official turnout numbers have plunged with the passing weeks, with police saying some 12,000 had joined Saturday's rally by midday. The government recorded 38,600 demonstrators on December 22 compared to 282,000 for the first major demonstrations on November 17.

But leading figures within the movement that has flourished outside of trade union and political groups, say the low numbers are due to the holiday season and January will bring a resurgence of the street protests.

The focus of the protests has morphed from anger over fuel taxes to a broad rebuke of Macron, accused by critics of neglecting the rising costs of living for many in rural and small-town France.

"We want to get our purchasing power back and have a say in the decisions," said Priscillia Ludosky, who launched the yellow vest petition against fuel price hikes.

Government tax concessions to boost disposable income among the low paid "are not enough", Ludosky said in Marseille.

The movement has increasingly targeted Macron and 40 "yellow vests" on Thursday tried to storm the medieval fort of Bregancon that serves as his official summer retreat on the Mediterranean before being turned back by police.

Die-hard yellow vest supporters believe the movement will live on in 2019 and plans are underway for New Year's Eve protests.

Nearly 8,000 people are listed on Facebook as intending to attend, insisting it will be "festive and non-violent".

Paris officials said preparations would continue for a fireworks display and sound and light show on the Champs-Elysee, the epicentre of repeated violent action against the government, with the Arc de Triomphe ransacked on December 1.

Tens of thousands of tourists and locals traditionally ring in the new year on the wide shopping boulevard, which rises to the Arc monument.&nbsp;

Police fired tear gas at "yellow vest" demonstrators in Paris on Saturday but the turnout for round seven of the popular protests that have rocked France appeared low.

Police fired tear gas at "yellow vest" demonstrators in Paris on Saturday but the turnout for round seven of the popular protests that have rocked France appeared low. Several hundred people wearing the symbolic hi-visibility vests had gathered near the offices of several state-run television stations and the BFM TV channel in the centre of the capital shouting "Fake news" and calling for the resignation of President Emmanuel Macron. Protesters spilled onto tram lines and lobbed projectiles at police who replied with tear gas grenades and detained several people. Several cars were also set alight outside the offices of the Le Parisien newspaper, although a fire service spokesman said it was not clear if the blaze was linked to the protests. Tear gas was also fired in Nantes, western France, and protests were expected in Lyon, Bordeaux and Toulouse. In the southern city of Marseille, police said around 1,000 protesters turned out, amid cries of "Macron out". The official turnout numbers have plunged with the passing weeks, with police saying some 12,000 had joined Saturday's rally by midday. The government recorded 38,600 demonstrators on December 22 compared to 282,000 for the first major demonstrations on November 17. But leading figures within the movement that has flourished outside of trade union and political groups, say the low numbers are due to the holiday season and January will bring a resurgence of the street protests. The focus of the protests has morphed from anger over fuel taxes to a broad rebuke of Macron, accused by critics of neglecting the rising costs of living for many in rural and small-town France. "We want to get our purchasing power back and have a say in the decisions," said Priscillia Ludosky, who launched the yellow vest petition against fuel price hikes. Government tax concessions to boost disposable income among the low paid "are not enough", Ludosky said in Marseille. The movement has increasingly targeted Macron and 40 "yellow vests" on Thursday tried to storm the medieval fort of Bregancon that serves as his official summer retreat on the Mediterranean before being turned back by police. Die-hard yellow vest supporters believe the movement will live on in 2019 and plans are underway for New Year's Eve protests. Nearly 8,000 people are listed on Facebook as intending to attend, insisting it will be "festive and non-violent". Paris officials said preparations would continue for a fireworks display and sound and light show on the Champs-Elysee, the epicentre of repeated violent action against the government, with the Arc de Triomphe ransacked on December 1. Tens of thousands of tourists and locals traditionally ring in the new year on the wide shopping boulevard, which rises to the Arc monument.

Police teargas 'yellow vest' protesters in Paris

By Garret Martin

Mostly peaceful demonstrations in Paris on December 15 showed that recent concessions by President Emmanuel Macron have quieted – but not satisfied – the outraged French protesters whose weekend marches have gripped and unsettled the country.

France’s “yellow jacket” movement began in November with local protests against a planned tax on fuel, mostly in poorer, rural parts of the country. The gas hike is part of Macron’s climate plan to promote electric and hybrid vehicles.

Those small demonstrations quickly morphed into an angry, leaderless, nationwide protest movement demanding higher wages, a repeal of the fuel tax and even Macron’s resignation. France’s government seemed stunned by the fury and power of the Yellow Vests.

After images of police using tear gas and tanks against protesters in Paris hit newspapers worldwide, French authorities on December 4 suspended the tax. Six days later, Macron gave a contrite speech announcing he would raise the minimum wage and cancel a tax increase on low-income retirees.

France takes centre stage

If Macron cannot assuage protesters’ demands, the consequences will be felt well beyond France’s borders. As a scholar who studies France’s role within the European Union, I believe France’s crisis could infect politics across the entire continent.

That’s because Macron’s centrist victory in the May 2017 French presidential election over the far-right Marine Le Pen was widely hailed as a rebuke to the surge of right-wing nationalist leaders who are deeply skeptical of the European Union.

Since then, France’s 40-year-old president has consistently presented himself as a defender of the European Union against conservative populists like Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban or Italian Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini.

In a much-cited Sept. 2017 speech at the Sorbonne University, Macron outlined an ambitious plan to reinvigorate the European Union with greater cooperation around defense and finance. Support for the bloc has suffered in recent years from far-right nationalist arguments against its policy of open borders and economic interdependence.

Only regional integration could dispel the threat of nationalism and protectionism, Macron said.

He echoed that warning more recently, in commemorating the 100th anniversary of World War I’s armistice, saying that the rising tide of populism in Europe recalled the 1920s, when fascism arose to threaten democracy across the continent.

Macron’s promising start

But if Macron is to safeguard Europe, he must first lead France. This once prosperous, powerful nation has for decades has stagnated economically, diminishing its standing on the world stage.

Macron came to power after a meteoric political rise. Though he has never before held elected office, the French president has grand ambitions for his country.

During the campaign, Macron promised no less than a “revolution,” pledging to reinvigorate France’s moribund economy, reform its entrenched bureaucracy and restore its global status.

His young La République en Marche party secured a large majority in the French parliament, allowing him to quickly push through some major policy initiatives. Within a year, Macron had signed legislation giving greater hiring flexibility in the labour market and overhauling France’s national railway company.

France’s powerful labour unions angrily protested against the measures. But unlike past presidents, Macron was popular enough to withstand their substantial pressure.

Remarkably, French public opinion was with the president – not with the workers.

Trouble at home

That has now changed. Eighteen months after taking office, Macron no longer looks like the golden boy who might actually reform old France.

Even before the yellow vest movement erupted, his popularity had been steadily declining. Macron’s approval rating, which stood at 64 per cent right after his election, has fallen to just 25 per cent.

His government lost the middle class after passing tax policies perceived to favour the wealthy. More broadly, Macron’s rather technical, almost academic governing style seems ill-suited to his bold vision of re-inventing politics.

And he has at times showed an arrogant, even condescending attitude toward constituents. In September, for example, he rubbed French people the wrong way by telling an unemployed gardener that he could find a job “just by crossing the road.”

Learning from past presidents

The yellow vest movement thus poses a fundamental test for Macron at a difficult time.

Modern French history shows the political risk of backing down to street protests. Worker outrage coupled with low popularity have stymied the ambitions of past French presidents.

Jacques Chirac abandoned his welfare reforms in 1995 when rail workers mounted sustained strikes. Nicolas Sarkozy diluted his plans to raise the pension age in 2010 for the same reason.

Those flip-flops cemented the perception that France was incapable of meaningful reforms and hobbled both presidents.

That, in turn, reduced France’s prestige on the international stage. A president embattled at home simply cannot credibly pressure other countries to change.

Europe in the crosshairs

Macron’s vision for greater European integration already faced major obstacles before the yellow vest riots undermined his leadership.

He has struggled to convince Germany to overhaul the eurozone, the European Union’s 19-member monetary union.

To stave off future economic crises like Greece’s near collapse a few years back, Macron wants greater economic integration – a eurozone with its own significant budget, finance minister and bailout possibilities.

But Chancellor Angela Merkel remains wary of any proposal that risks having German taxpayers subsidize less solvent eurozone nations, as demonstrated in a compromise agreement passed in mid-December. It gives Macron the dedicated eurozone budget he fought for – but it’s much smaller than hoped and won’t include bailout possibility.

Meanwhile, populists on both sides of the Atlantic have delighted in Macron’s domestic woes.

“Macron is not a problem for me – Macron is a problem for French people,” joked Italy’s Mario Salvini recently.

Donald Trump, for his part, has said that the yellow vest protests show why the global climate change movement is “fatally flawed.”

At home, too, Macron’s inability to address the grievances of the yellow vest protesters could create even more fertile conditions for populism to thrive.

Macron won office by presenting himself as an alternative to France’s discredited political establishment. Now, the disenchanted French have set their sights on him.

(Garret Martin is Professorial Lecturer, American University School of International Service) 
 
(This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/shockwaves-from-french-yellow-vest-protests-felt-across-europe-108578">original article)</a>

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

By Garret Martin Mostly peaceful demonstrations in Paris on December 15 showed that recent concessions by President Emmanuel Macron have quieted – but not satisfied – the outraged French protesters whose weekend marches have gripped and unsettled the country.

By Garret Martin Mostly peaceful demonstrations in Paris on December 15 showed that recent concessions by President Emmanuel Macron have quieted – but not satisfied – the outraged French protesters whose weekend marches have gripped and unsettled the country. France’s “yellow jacket” movement began in November with local protests against a planned tax on fuel, mostly in poorer, rural parts of the country. The gas hike is part of Macron’s climate plan to promote electric and hybrid vehicles. Those small demonstrations quickly morphed into an angry, leaderless, nationwide protest movement demanding higher wages, a repeal of the fuel tax and even Macron’s resignation. France’s government seemed stunned by the fury and power of the Yellow Vests. After images of police using tear gas and tanks against protesters in Paris hit newspapers worldwide, French authorities on December 4 suspended the tax. Six days later, Macron gave a contrite speech announcing he would raise the minimum wage and cancel a tax increase on low-income retirees. France takes centre stage If Macron cannot assuage protesters’ demands, the consequences will be felt well beyond France’s borders. As a scholar who studies France’s role within the European Union, I believe France’s crisis could infect politics across the entire continent. That’s because Macron’s centrist victory in the May 2017 French presidential election over the far-right Marine Le Pen was widely hailed as a rebuke to the surge of right-wing nationalist leaders who are deeply skeptical of the European Union. Since then, France’s 40-year-old president has consistently presented himself as a defender of the European Union against conservative populists like Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban or Italian Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini. In a much-cited Sept. 2017 speech at the Sorbonne University, Macron outlined an ambitious plan to reinvigorate the European Union with greater cooperation around defense and finance. Support for the bloc has suffered in recent years from far-right nationalist arguments against its policy of open borders and economic interdependence. Only regional integration could dispel the threat of nationalism and protectionism, Macron said. He echoed that warning more recently, in commemorating the 100th anniversary of World War I’s armistice, saying that the rising tide of populism in Europe recalled the 1920s, when fascism arose to threaten democracy across the continent. Macron’s promising start But if Macron is to safeguard Europe, he must first lead France. This once prosperous, powerful nation has for decades has stagnated economically, diminishing its standing on the world stage. Macron came to power after a meteoric political rise. Though he has never before held elected office, the French president has grand ambitions for his country. During the campaign, Macron promised no less than a “revolution,” pledging to reinvigorate France’s moribund economy, reform its entrenched bureaucracy and restore its global status. His young La République en Marche party secured a large majority in the French parliament, allowing him to quickly push through some major policy initiatives. Within a year, Macron had signed legislation giving greater hiring flexibility in the labour market and overhauling France’s national railway company. France’s powerful labour unions angrily protested against the measures. But unlike past presidents, Macron was popular enough to withstand their substantial pressure. Remarkably, French public opinion was with the president – not with the workers. Trouble at home That has now changed. Eighteen months after taking office, Macron no longer looks like the golden boy who might actually reform old France. Even before the yellow vest movement erupted, his popularity had been steadily declining. Macron’s approval rating, which stood at 64 per cent right after his election, has fallen to just 25 per cent. His government lost the middle class after passing tax policies perceived to favour the wealthy. More broadly, Macron’s rather technical, almost academic governing style seems ill-suited to his bold vision of re-inventing politics. And he has at times showed an arrogant, even condescending attitude toward constituents. In September, for example, he rubbed French people the wrong way by telling an unemployed gardener that he could find a job “just by crossing the road.” Learning from past presidents The yellow vest movement thus poses a fundamental test for Macron at a difficult time. Modern French history shows the political risk of backing down to street protests. Worker outrage coupled with low popularity have stymied the ambitions of past French presidents. Jacques Chirac abandoned his welfare reforms in 1995 when rail workers mounted sustained strikes. Nicolas Sarkozy diluted his plans to raise the pension age in 2010 for the same reason. Those flip-flops cemented the perception that France was incapable of meaningful reforms and hobbled both presidents. That, in turn, reduced France’s prestige on the international stage. A president embattled at home simply cannot credibly pressure other countries to change. Europe in the crosshairs Macron’s vision for greater European integration already faced major obstacles before the yellow vest riots undermined his leadership. He has struggled to convince Germany to overhaul the eurozone, the European Union’s 19-member monetary union. To stave off future economic crises like Greece’s near collapse a few years back, Macron wants greater economic integration – a eurozone with its own significant budget, finance minister and bailout possibilities. But Chancellor Angela Merkel remains wary of any proposal that risks having German taxpayers subsidize less solvent eurozone nations, as demonstrated in a compromise agreement passed in mid-December. It gives Macron the dedicated eurozone budget he fought for – but it’s much smaller than hoped and won’t include bailout possibility. Meanwhile, populists on both sides of the Atlantic have delighted in Macron’s domestic woes. “Macron is not a problem for me – Macron is a problem for French people,” joked Italy’s Mario Salvini recently. Donald Trump, for his part, has said that the yellow vest protests show why the global climate change movement is “fatally flawed.” At home, too, Macron’s inability to address the grievances of the yellow vest protesters could create even more fertile conditions for populism to thrive. Macron won office by presenting himself as an alternative to France’s discredited political establishment. Now, the disenchanted French have set their sights on him. (Garret Martin is Professorial Lecturer, American University School of International Service) (This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Shockwaves from French ‘yellow vest’ protests felt across Europe

French PM Edouard Philippe to announce fuel tax suspension

French ambulance drivers gathered on Monday to join nationwide protests against President Macron's punishing fuel taxes and spiralling living costs, blaming a president who they see as detached from the everyday struggles of life outside the city.

The unrest began as a backlash against fuel tax hikes but has spread. It poses the most formidable challenge yet to Macron's presidency, with the escalating violence and depth of public anger against his economic reforms catching the 40-year-old leader off-guard and battling to regain control.

Macron ordered his prime minister on Sunday to hold talks with political leaders and demonstrators, as he sought a way out of nationwide protests after rioters turned central Paris into a battle zone.

Riot police on Saturday were overwhelmed as protesters ran amok in Paris's wealthiest neighbourhoods, torching dozens of cars, looting boutiques and smashing up luxury private homes and cafes in the worst disturbances the capital has seen since 1968.

The unrest began as a backlash against fuel tax hikes but has spread. It poses the most formidable challenge yet to Emmanuel Macron's presidency, with the escalating violence and depth of public anger against his economic reforms catching the 40-year-old leader off-guard and battling to regain control.

French ambulance drivers gathered on Monday to join nationwide protests against President Macron's punishing fuel taxes and spiralling living costs, blaming a president who they see as detached from the everyday struggles of life outside the city.

French ambulance drivers gathered on Monday to join nationwide protests against President Macron's punishing fuel taxes and spiralling living costs, blaming a president who they see as detached from the everyday struggles of life outside the city. The unrest began as a backlash against fuel tax hikes but has spread. It poses the most formidable challenge yet to Macron's presidency, with the escalating violence and depth of public anger against his economic reforms catching the 40-year-old leader off-guard and battling to regain control. Macron ordered his prime minister on Sunday to hold talks with political leaders and demonstrators, as he sought a way out of nationwide protests after rioters turned central Paris into a battle zone. Riot police on Saturday were overwhelmed as protesters ran amok in Paris's wealthiest neighbourhoods, torching dozens of cars, looting boutiques and smashing up luxury private homes and cafes in the worst disturbances the capital has seen since 1968. The unrest began as a backlash against fuel tax hikes but has spread. It poses the most formidable challenge yet to Emmanuel Macron's presidency, with the escalating violence and depth of public anger against his economic reforms catching the 40-year-old leader off-guard and battling to regain control.

Ambulance drivers in France join ongoing protest against President Macron's reforms

French President Emmanuel Macron ordered his prime minister on Sunday to hold talks with political leaders and demonstrators, as he sought a way out of nationwide protests after rioters turned central Paris into a battle zone.

Riot police on Saturday were overwhelmed as protesters ran amok in Paris's wealthiest neighbourhoods, torching dozens of cars, looting boutiques and smashing up luxury private homes and cafes in the worst disturbances the capital has seen since 1968.

The unrest began as a backlash against fuel tax hikes but has spread. It poses the most formidable challenge yet to Macron's presidency, with the escalating violence and depth of public anger against his economic reforms catching the 40-year-old leader off-guard and battling to regain control.

After a meeting with members of his government on Sunday, the French presidency said in a statement that the president had asked his interior minister to prepare security forces for future protests and his prime minister to hold talks with political party leaders and representatives of the protesters.

A French presidential source said Macron would not speak to the nation on Sunday despite calls for him to offer immediate concessions to demonstrators, and said the idea of imposing a state of emergency had not been discussed.

Arriving back from the G20 summit in Argentina, Macron had earlier rushed to the Arc de Triomphe, a revered monument and epicentre of Saturday's clashes, where protesters had scrawled "Macron resign" and "The yellow vests will triumph".

The "yellow vest" rebellion erupted out of nowhere on Nov. 17, with protesters blocking roads across France and impeding access to some shopping malls, fuel depots and airports. Violent groups from the far right and far left as well as youths from the suburbs infiltrated Saturday's protests, the authorities said.

Government spokesman Benjamin Griveaux had indicated the Macron administration was considering imposing a state of emergency. The president was open to dialogue, he said, but would not reverse policy reforms.

"We won't change course. We are certain of that," he told Europe 1 radio.

As he spoke, workmen in the upper-crust district of central Paris set about cleaning the defaced Arc, removing charred hulks of cars and replacing the shattered windows of banks, restaurants and glitzy boutiques.

Macron unyielding

While the protests were initially against Macron's fuel tax hikes - necessary he says to combat climate change - they have also mined a vein of deep dissatisfaction felt towards his liberal reforms, which many voters feel favour the wealthy and big business.

Police said they had arrested more than 400 people in Paris on Saturday and that 133 were injured. Some 10,000 tear gas canisters and stun grenades were fired as well as water canon as security forces fought for control.

Macron's plight illustrates a conundrum: How do political leaders' introduce policies that will do long-term good for the environment without inflicting extra costs on voters that may damage their chances of re-election?

His unyielding response has exposed him to charges of being out of touch with common folk outside of France's big cities who worry about the squeeze on household budgets and job security.

The protests have driven Macron's popularity to record lows and left him facing a lose-lose situation, said Gael Sliman, president of the Odoxa polling institute said.

Either Macron caves in to the pressure and is derided by opponents as weak, or he puts down the dissent, Sliman said.

"In the second scenario, Macron will still come out loser, because what everyone will remember is that he wrestled with the popular classes. He would be victorious, but at the cost of having crushed them."

Before heading into Sunday's meeting, Macron met under heavy security with police and firefighters near the Champs Elysees boulevard. Some bystanders cheered, others jeered and called on him to resign.

So too did Jean-Luc Melenchon, head of hard-left party La France Insoumise (France Unbowed) and far-right leader Marine Le Pen, who both demanded the government unwind its fuel tax hikes. They called for parliament to be dissolved and snap elections held.

Such an outcome is unlikely, however. Macron has 3 1/2 years left of his five-year mandate and a strong majority in parliament, albeit with signs of simmering unease on the backbenches over his response to the protests.

TV footage showed the interior of the Arc ransacked, a statue of Marianne, symbol of the French republic, smashed, and graffiti scrawled on the exterior ranging from anti-capitalist slogans to social demands and calls for Macron's resignation.

On nearby streets, some Parisians worried of a repeat of the violence next weekend. The yellow vests have already called another demonstration in Paris.

"The violence is increasing at an exponential rate," said Claude, a resident in the affluent 16th district. "The state is losing control, it is scary. They cannot let this happen. Maybe the army should intervene." 
&nbsp;

French President Emmanuel Macron ordered his prime minister on Sunday to hold talks with political leaders and demonstrators, as he sought a way out of nationwide protests after rioters turned central Paris into a battle zone.

French President Emmanuel Macron ordered his prime minister on Sunday to hold talks with political leaders and demonstrators, as he sought a way out of nationwide protests after rioters turned central Paris into a battle zone. Riot police on Saturday were overwhelmed as protesters ran amok in Paris's wealthiest neighbourhoods, torching dozens of cars, looting boutiques and smashing up luxury private homes and cafes in the worst disturbances the capital has seen since 1968. The unrest began as a backlash against fuel tax hikes but has spread. It poses the most formidable challenge yet to Macron's presidency, with the escalating violence and depth of public anger against his economic reforms catching the 40-year-old leader off-guard and battling to regain control. After a meeting with members of his government on Sunday, the French presidency said in a statement that the president had asked his interior minister to prepare security forces for future protests and his prime minister to hold talks with political party leaders and representatives of the protesters. A French presidential source said Macron would not speak to the nation on Sunday despite calls for him to offer immediate concessions to demonstrators, and said the idea of imposing a state of emergency had not been discussed. Arriving back from the G20 summit in Argentina, Macron had earlier rushed to the Arc de Triomphe, a revered monument and epicentre of Saturday's clashes, where protesters had scrawled "Macron resign" and "The yellow vests will triumph". The "yellow vest" rebellion erupted out of nowhere on Nov. 17, with protesters blocking roads across France and impeding access to some shopping malls, fuel depots and airports. Violent groups from the far right and far left as well as youths from the suburbs infiltrated Saturday's protests, the authorities said. Government spokesman Benjamin Griveaux had indicated the Macron administration was considering imposing a state of emergency. The president was open to dialogue, he said, but would not reverse policy reforms. "We won't change course. We are certain of that," he told Europe 1 radio. As he spoke, workmen in the upper-crust district of central Paris set about cleaning the defaced Arc, removing charred hulks of cars and replacing the shattered windows of banks, restaurants and glitzy boutiques. Macron unyielding While the protests were initially against Macron's fuel tax hikes - necessary he says to combat climate change - they have also mined a vein of deep dissatisfaction felt towards his liberal reforms, which many voters feel favour the wealthy and big business. Police said they had arrested more than 400 people in Paris on Saturday and that 133 were injured. Some 10,000 tear gas canisters and stun grenades were fired as well as water canon as security forces fought for control. Macron's plight illustrates a conundrum: How do political leaders' introduce policies that will do long-term good for the environment without inflicting extra costs on voters that may damage their chances of re-election? His unyielding response has exposed him to charges of being out of touch with common folk outside of France's big cities who worry about the squeeze on household budgets and job security. The protests have driven Macron's popularity to record lows and left him facing a lose-lose situation, said Gael Sliman, president of the Odoxa polling institute said. Either Macron caves in to the pressure and is derided by opponents as weak, or he puts down the dissent, Sliman said. "In the second scenario, Macron will still come out loser, because what everyone will remember is that he wrestled with the popular classes. He would be victorious, but at the cost of having crushed them." Before heading into Sunday's meeting, Macron met under heavy security with police and firefighters near the Champs Elysees boulevard. Some bystanders cheered, others jeered and called on him to resign. So too did Jean-Luc Melenchon, head of hard-left party La France Insoumise (France Unbowed) and far-right leader Marine Le Pen, who both demanded the government unwind its fuel tax hikes. They called for parliament to be dissolved and snap elections held. Such an outcome is unlikely, however. Macron has 3 1/2 years left of his five-year mandate and a strong majority in parliament, albeit with signs of simmering unease on the backbenches over his response to the protests. TV footage showed the interior of the Arc ransacked, a statue of Marianne, symbol of the French republic, smashed, and graffiti scrawled on the exterior ranging from anti-capitalist slogans to social demands and calls for Macron's resignation. On nearby streets, some Parisians worried of a repeat of the violence next weekend. The yellow vests have already called another demonstration in Paris. "The violence is increasing at an exponential rate," said Claude, a resident in the affluent 16th district. "The state is losing control, it is scary. They cannot let this happen. Maybe the army should intervene."

As 'Yellow Jacket' protest rocks Paris, Macron tells PM Edouard Philippe to hold talks with leaders, rioters

French President Emmanuel Macron led a crisis meeting on Sunday after anti-government protests in Paris that left 263 people injured and widespread destruction around the capital.

Macron met with the prime minister, interior minister and top security service officials at the presidential palace in Paris after flying in from the G20 summit in Argentina.

He earlier visited the Arc de Triomphe, a monument to France's war dead, and other scenes of violence where he paid tribute to the police but was also booed by sections of the crowd.

Paris police said 412 people were arrested on Saturday during the worst clashes for years in the capital and 378 were still in custody.

A total of 133 had been injured, including 23 members of the security forces who battled rioters for most of the day in some of the most famous parts of the capital.

"I will never accept violence," Macron told a news conference in Buenos Aires before flying home.&nbsp;

"No cause justifies that authorities are attacked, that businesses are plundered, that passers-by or journalists are threatened or that the Arc du Triomphe is defiled," he said.

As protests took place across the country, a motorist died overnight after crashing a van into traffic which had built up due to a "yellow vest" demonstration in Arles, southern France, a local prosecutor said Sunday.

The so-called "yellow vest" anti-government protests that have swept France over the last fortnight were sparked initially by a rise in taxes on diesel.

In a separate incident, a motorway pay booth was set on fire by arsonists in southern France near the city of Narbonne, a judicial source told AFP Sunday. Five people were taken into custody, a prosecutor said.

The main north-south motorway in eastern France, the A6, was also blocked by protesters near the city of Lyon on Sunday morning, its operator said.

The capital was calm, however, but as groups of workers moved around cleaning up the mess from the previous day, the scale of the destruction became clear.

Around famous areas including the Champs-Elysees, the Louvre museum, the Opera and Place Vendome, smashed shop windows, broken glass and the occasional burned-out car were testament to the violence.

Dozens of cars were torched by the gangs of rioters, some of whom wore gas masks and ski goggles to lessen the effects of tear gas which was fired continually by police.

One person was in a critical condition after protesters pulled down one of the huge iron gates of the Tuileries garden facing the Louvre museum, crushing several people.

Nearly 190 fires were put out and six buildings were set alight, the interior ministry said.

At the Arc de Triomphe graffiti had been daubed, with one slogan saying: "The yellow vests will win."

What response?

Over the last few weeks, the "yellow vest" movement has morphed into a broad opposition front to Macron, a 40-year-old pro-business centrist elected in May 2017.

Violent anarchist and far-right groups have infiltrated it and are thought to be behind Saturday's clashes.

Macron faces a dilemma in how to respond to the "yellow vests", not least because they are a grassroots movement with no formal leaders and a wide range of demands.

Some representatives have also insisted on public talks broadcast on TV.

"We have said that we won't change course. Because the course is good," government spokesman Benjamin Griveaux told BFM television defiantly on Sunday morning.

"It's been 30 years that people change course every 18 months," he added, referring to Macron's presidential predecessors who have often caved in to pressure from French street protests.

Macron has so far refused to roll back taxes on fuel, which he says are needed to fund the country's transition to a low-emission economy.

And he remains a fervent defender of the tax cuts he has delivered for businesses and the wealthy, which he believes were necessary to lower the country's chronic high unemployment.

"We're at a time when a bit of national unity around our security forces, around those who are really struggling would be a good thing for the country," Griveaux added.

State of emergency?

Some 136,000 demonstrators, most of them peaceful, were counted across the country on Saturday, the interior ministry said Sunday in updated figures.

The number was well below the first day of protests on November 17, which attracted around 282,000 people, and also down on the revised figure of 166,000 who turned out last Saturday.

Interior Minister Christophe Castaner attributed the violence to "specialists in sowing conflict, specialists in destruction".

He did not rule out imposing a state of emergency -- a demand made by the police union Alliance -- declaring: "Nothing is taboo for me. I am prepared to examine everything."

Despite the violence, opinion polls suggest the protests still attract the support of two out of three French people.

French President Emmanuel Macron led a crisis meeting on Sunday after anti-government protests in Paris that left 263 people injured and widespread destruction around the capital.

French President Emmanuel Macron led a crisis meeting on Sunday after anti-government protests in Paris that left 263 people injured and widespread destruction around the capital. Macron met with the prime minister, interior minister and top security service officials at the presidential palace in Paris after flying in from the G20 summit in Argentina. He earlier visited the Arc de Triomphe, a monument to France's war dead, and other scenes of violence where he paid tribute to the police but was also booed by sections of the crowd. Paris police said 412 people were arrested on Saturday during the worst clashes for years in the capital and 378 were still in custody. A total of 133 had been injured, including 23 members of the security forces who battled rioters for most of the day in some of the most famous parts of the capital. "I will never accept violence," Macron told a news conference in Buenos Aires before flying home. "No cause justifies that authorities are attacked, that businesses are plundered, that passers-by or journalists are threatened or that the Arc du Triomphe is defiled," he said. As protests took place across the country, a motorist died overnight after crashing a van into traffic which had built up due to a "yellow vest" demonstration in Arles, southern France, a local prosecutor said Sunday. The so-called "yellow vest" anti-government protests that have swept France over the last fortnight were sparked initially by a rise in taxes on diesel. In a separate incident, a motorway pay booth was set on fire by arsonists in southern France near the city of Narbonne, a judicial source told AFP Sunday. Five people were taken into custody, a prosecutor said. The main north-south motorway in eastern France, the A6, was also blocked by protesters near the city of Lyon on Sunday morning, its operator said. The capital was calm, however, but as groups of workers moved around cleaning up the mess from the previous day, the scale of the destruction became clear. Around famous areas including the Champs-Elysees, the Louvre museum, the Opera and Place Vendome, smashed shop windows, broken glass and the occasional burned-out car were testament to the violence. Dozens of cars were torched by the gangs of rioters, some of whom wore gas masks and ski goggles to lessen the effects of tear gas which was fired continually by police. One person was in a critical condition after protesters pulled down one of the huge iron gates of the Tuileries garden facing the Louvre museum, crushing several people. Nearly 190 fires were put out and six buildings were set alight, the interior ministry said. At the Arc de Triomphe graffiti had been daubed, with one slogan saying: "The yellow vests will win." What response? Over the last few weeks, the "yellow vest" movement has morphed into a broad opposition front to Macron, a 40-year-old pro-business centrist elected in May 2017. Violent anarchist and far-right groups have infiltrated it and are thought to be behind Saturday's clashes. Macron faces a dilemma in how to respond to the "yellow vests", not least because they are a grassroots movement with no formal leaders and a wide range of demands. Some representatives have also insisted on public talks broadcast on TV. "We have said that we won't change course. Because the course is good," government spokesman Benjamin Griveaux told BFM television defiantly on Sunday morning. "It's been 30 years that people change course every 18 months," he added, referring to Macron's presidential predecessors who have often caved in to pressure from French street protests. Macron has so far refused to roll back taxes on fuel, which he says are needed to fund the country's transition to a low-emission economy. And he remains a fervent defender of the tax cuts he has delivered for businesses and the wealthy, which he believes were necessary to lower the country's chronic high unemployment. "We're at a time when a bit of national unity around our security forces, around those who are really struggling would be a good thing for the country," Griveaux added. State of emergency? Some 136,000 demonstrators, most of them peaceful, were counted across the country on Saturday, the interior ministry said Sunday in updated figures. The number was well below the first day of protests on November 17, which attracted around 282,000 people, and also down on the revised figure of 166,000 who turned out last Saturday. Interior Minister Christophe Castaner attributed the violence to "specialists in sowing conflict, specialists in destruction". He did not rule out imposing a state of emergency -- a demand made by the police union Alliance -- declaring: "Nothing is taboo for me. I am prepared to examine everything." Despite the violence, opinion polls suggest the protests still attract the support of two out of three French people.

France fuel protest: 263 people injured as Macron leads crisis meeting

The French government will consider imposing a state of emergency to prevent a recurrence of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/french-police-clash-with-yellow-vest-protesters-in-paris-169-arrested-180785">France's worst riots</a> in years, but while it is open to dialogue it will not change course, its spokesman said on Sunday.

Masked, black-clad groups ran amok across central Paris on Saturday, torching cars and buildings, looting shops, smashing windows and fighting police in the worst unrest the capital has seen since 1968, posing the most formidable challenge Emmanuel Macron has faced in his 18-month-old presidency.

Disturbances also rocked several cities and towns and across France - from Charleville Mezieres in the northeast to Nantes in the west and Marseille in the south.

"We have to think about the measures that can be taken so that these incidents don't happen again," government spokeswoman Benjamin Griveaux told Europe 1 radio.

The popular rebellion erupted out of nowhere on Nov. 17 and has spread quickly via social media, with protesters blocking roads across France and impeding access to shopping malls, factories and some fuel depots.

The protests began as a backlash against Macron's fuel tax hikes, but have mined a vein of deep dissatisfaction felt towards the 40-year-old's liberal economic reforms, which many voters feel favour the wealthy and big business.

Authorities were caught off guard by Saturday's escalation in violence overshadowing the spontaneous protest movement, dubbed the "yellow vests" because many participants are wearing the fluorescent safety jackets kept in all cars in France.

In Paris, police said they had arrested more than 400 people while 133 were injured, including 23 members of the security forces. Police fired stun grenades, tear gas and water cannon at protesters at the top of the Champs-Elysees boulevard, at the Tuilleries Garden near the Louvre museum and other sites.

MACRON CHAIRS&nbsp;EMERGENCY MEET

Macron will hold an emergency meeting with the prime minister and interior minister later on Sunday to discuss the riots and how to begin dialogue with the "gilets jaunes" (yellow vests), who have no real structure or leadership.

When asked about imposing a state of emergency, Griveaux said it would be among the options considered on Sunday.

"It is out of the question that each weekend becomes a meeting or ritual for violence."

Griveaux urged the yellow vest movement to disassociate itself from the radical groups that had instigated the violence, organise itself and come to the negotiating table. However, he ruled out a change in government policy.

"We won't change course. It's the right direction. We are certain of that," he said.

Authorities said violent groups from the far right and far left as well as "thugs" from the suburbs had infiltrated the yellow vests movement in Paris on Saturday, though Interior Minister Christophe Castaner said most of those arrested were regular protesters who had been egged on by fringe groups.

Speaking on BFM TV late on Saturday, Castaner said the authorities had put all security measures in place to forestall disturbances, but that they had faced extremely violent, organised and determined groups.

He did however say the government had made a mistake in how it communicated its plans to move away from oil dependence, the policy which led to fuel tax hikes.

Paul Marra, a yellow vest activist in Marseille, told BFM TV that the government was to blame for the violence across the country. "We condemn what happened, but it was inevitable. The violence started from the top. The biggest thug is the state through its inaction."

The French government will consider imposing a state of emergency to prevent a recurrence of France's worst riots in years, but while it is open to dialogue it will not change course, its spokesman said on Sunday.

The French government will consider imposing a state of emergency to prevent a recurrence of France's worst riots in years, but while it is open to dialogue it will not change course, its spokesman said on Sunday. Masked, black-clad groups ran amok across central Paris on Saturday, torching cars and buildings, looting shops, smashing windows and fighting police in the worst unrest the capital has seen since 1968, posing the most formidable challenge Emmanuel Macron has faced in his 18-month-old presidency. Disturbances also rocked several cities and towns and across France - from Charleville Mezieres in the northeast to Nantes in the west and Marseille in the south. "We have to think about the measures that can be taken so that these incidents don't happen again," government spokeswoman Benjamin Griveaux told Europe 1 radio. The popular rebellion erupted out of nowhere on Nov. 17 and has spread quickly via social media, with protesters blocking roads across France and impeding access to shopping malls, factories and some fuel depots. The protests began as a backlash against Macron's fuel tax hikes, but have mined a vein of deep dissatisfaction felt towards the 40-year-old's liberal economic reforms, which many voters feel favour the wealthy and big business. Authorities were caught off guard by Saturday's escalation in violence overshadowing the spontaneous protest movement, dubbed the "yellow vests" because many participants are wearing the fluorescent safety jackets kept in all cars in France. In Paris, police said they had arrested more than 400 people while 133 were injured, including 23 members of the security forces. Police fired stun grenades, tear gas and water cannon at protesters at the top of the Champs-Elysees boulevard, at the Tuilleries Garden near the Louvre museum and other sites. MACRON CHAIRS EMERGENCY MEET Macron will hold an emergency meeting with the prime minister and interior minister later on Sunday to discuss the riots and how to begin dialogue with the "gilets jaunes" (yellow vests), who have no real structure or leadership. When asked about imposing a state of emergency, Griveaux said it would be among the options considered on Sunday. "It is out of the question that each weekend becomes a meeting or ritual for violence." Griveaux urged the yellow vest movement to disassociate itself from the radical groups that had instigated the violence, organise itself and come to the negotiating table. However, he ruled out a change in government policy. "We won't change course. It's the right direction. We are certain of that," he said. Authorities said violent groups from the far right and far left as well as "thugs" from the suburbs had infiltrated the yellow vests movement in Paris on Saturday, though Interior Minister Christophe Castaner said most of those arrested were regular protesters who had been egged on by fringe groups. Speaking on BFM TV late on Saturday, Castaner said the authorities had put all security measures in place to forestall disturbances, but that they had faced extremely violent, organised and determined groups. He did however say the government had made a mistake in how it communicated its plans to move away from oil dependence, the policy which led to fuel tax hikes. Paul Marra, a yellow vest activist in Marseille, told BFM TV that the government was to blame for the violence across the country. "We condemn what happened, but it was inevitable. The violence started from the top. The biggest thug is the state through its inaction."

France mulls state of emergency after Paris riots, won't change policy

More than 65 people were injured and almost 170 people arrested in central Paris on Saturday after violent clashes between police and "<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/france-fuel-protest-riot-police-fire-tear-gas-at-yellow-vest-protestors-60-detained-180695">yellow vest</a>" protesters, in the third weekend of nationwide demonstrations against high living costs.

Police fired tear gas, stun grenades and water cannon in battles with protesters around the Arc de Triomphe near the Champs-Elysees avenue and clashes were reported elsewhere across the city centre as well as in other towns across the country.

<img alt="Protesters wearing yellow vests, a symbol of a French drivers' protest against higher diesel taxes, demonstrate in Paris, France." data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e0216389-5aec-4dba-ab5d-a60acf418576" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design_1.jpg" />

(Protesters wearing yellow vests, a symbol of a French drivers' protest against higher diesel taxes, demonstrate in Paris, France.)

<img alt="A man waves a French flag near the Arc de Triomphe as protesters wearing yellow vests, a symbol of a French drivers' protest against higher diesel taxes, demonstrate." data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f8f7979c-dee9-4a26-9850-0fbab88b8c11" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2810%29.jpg" />

(A man waves a French flag near the Arc de Triomphe as protesters wearing yellow vests, a symbol of a French drivers' protest against higher diesel taxes, demonstrate.)

Police said they had arrested 169 people and some are concerned that violent far-right and far-left groups were infiltrating the "gilets jaunes" (yellow vests) movement, a spontaneous grassroots rebellion against the struggle many French face to make ends meet.

For three weeks, protesters have blocked roads across France, posing one of the largest and most sustained challenges Emmanuel Macron has faced in his 18-month-old presidency.

Sixty-five people, including 11 members of the security forces, have been injured in the capital, Paris police said.

"We are attached to dialogue, but also respect for the law," Edouard Philippe told reporters. "I am shocked by the attacks on the symbols of France."

The skirmishes in Paris broke out early on Saturday, with rioters and peaceful protesters mixed together after authorities cordoned off the Champs-Elysees, forcing them into adjacent streets.

Demonstrators put up barricades in the surrounding areas, smashed some car windows and set alight dozens of vehicles, including a police car. A restaurant in the vicinity was also set ablaze.

Several hundred yellow vests, who have no leader and have largely organised themselves online, sat down around the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier under the Arc de Triomphe, singing La Marseillaise, France's national anthem, and chanting, "Macron Resign!"

On the facade of the towering 19th-century arch, protesters scrawled in big black letters: "The yellow vests will triumph."

Some protesters were later seen on top of the arch.

Clashes also took place in other cities and towns including Nantes in the west, Toulouse and Tarbes in the southwest, Puy-en-Velay in the centre of the country, Charleville Mezieres in the northeast and Avignon in the southeast.

Macron stands firm

Along the Champs-Elysees, which was cordoned off, peaceful protesters held up a slogan reading, "Macron, stop treating us like idiots!"

The president, who is at the G20 leaders' summit in Argentina, said on Tuesday he understood the anger felt by voters outside France's big cities over the squeeze that fuel prices have put on households but insisted he would not be bounced into changing policy by "thugs".

Philippe said there were 5,500 protesters in Paris and a combined 36,000 elsewhere in France. Police unions reported 582 road blockages.

Some of the protesters expressed concern over the clashes.

"What message do the yellow vests want to pass today? That we set France on fire, or find solutions? I find this (violence) absurd," Jacline Mouraud, a prominent activist within the yellow vests movement, told BFM television.

But assistant teacher Sandrine Lemoussu, 45, who came from Burgundy to protest, told Reuters that people had had enough.

"The people are in revolt," she said. "The anger is rising more and more, and the president despises the French. We aren't here to smash things, but the people have had enough."

One retiree protester said: "The government is not listening. Revolution cannot happen without violence."

Many on the outskirts of smaller provincial towns and villages have expressed anger, underlining the gap between metropolitan elites and working-class voters that has boosted anti-establishment politics across the Western world.

"Mr Macron wrote a book called Revolution. He was prophetic because it is what he has managed to launch, but not the revolution he sought," Far-left La France Insoumise leader Jean-Luc Melenchon told reporters ahead of a protest in Marseille.

The yellow vests, who enjoy widespread public support, get their name from the high-visibility jackets all motorists in France must carry in their vehicles.

The protests have caught Macron off-guard just as he was trying to counter a fall in his popularity rating to 30 per cent. His unyielding response has exposed him to charges of being out of touch with ordinary people.

More than 65 people were injured and almost 170 people arrested in central Paris on Saturday after violent clashes between police and "yellow vest" protesters, in the third weekend of nationwide demonstrations against high living costs.

More than 65 people were injured and almost 170 people arrested in central Paris on Saturday after violent clashes between police and "yellow vest" protesters, in the third weekend of nationwide demonstrations against high living costs. Police fired tear gas, stun grenades and water cannon in battles with protesters around the Arc de Triomphe near the Champs-Elysees avenue and clashes were reported elsewhere across the city centre as well as in other towns across the country. (Protesters wearing yellow vests, a symbol of a French drivers' protest against higher diesel taxes, demonstrate in Paris, France.) (A man waves a French flag near the Arc de Triomphe as protesters wearing yellow vests, a symbol of a French drivers' protest against higher diesel taxes, demonstrate.) Police said they had arrested 169 people and some are concerned that violent far-right and far-left groups were infiltrating the "gilets jaunes" (yellow vests) movement, a spontaneous grassroots rebellion against the struggle many French face to make ends meet. For three weeks, protesters have blocked roads across France, posing one of the largest and most sustained challenges Emmanuel Macron has faced in his 18-month-old presidency. Sixty-five people, including 11 members of the security forces, have been injured in the capital, Paris police said. "We are attached to dialogue, but also respect for the law," Edouard Philippe told reporters. "I am shocked by the attacks on the symbols of France." The skirmishes in Paris broke out early on Saturday, with rioters and peaceful protesters mixed together after authorities cordoned off the Champs-Elysees, forcing them into adjacent streets. Demonstrators put up barricades in the surrounding areas, smashed some car windows and set alight dozens of vehicles, including a police car. A restaurant in the vicinity was also set ablaze. Several hundred yellow vests, who have no leader and have largely organised themselves online, sat down around the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier under the Arc de Triomphe, singing La Marseillaise, France's national anthem, and chanting, "Macron Resign!" On the facade of the towering 19th-century arch, protesters scrawled in big black letters: "The yellow vests will triumph." Some protesters were later seen on top of the arch. Clashes also took place in other cities and towns including Nantes in the west, Toulouse and Tarbes in the southwest, Puy-en-Velay in the centre of the country, Charleville Mezieres in the northeast and Avignon in the southeast. Macron stands firm Along the Champs-Elysees, which was cordoned off, peaceful protesters held up a slogan reading, "Macron, stop treating us like idiots!" The president, who is at the G20 leaders' summit in Argentina, said on Tuesday he understood the anger felt by voters outside France's big cities over the squeeze that fuel prices have put on households but insisted he would not be bounced into changing policy by "thugs". Philippe said there were 5,500 protesters in Paris and a combined 36,000 elsewhere in France. Police unions reported 582 road blockages. Some of the protesters expressed concern over the clashes. "What message do the yellow vests want to pass today? That we set France on fire, or find solutions? I find this (violence) absurd," Jacline Mouraud, a prominent activist within the yellow vests movement, told BFM television. But assistant teacher Sandrine Lemoussu, 45, who came from Burgundy to protest, told Reuters that people had had enough. "The people are in revolt," she said. "The anger is rising more and more, and the president despises the French. We aren't here to smash things, but the people have had enough." One retiree protester said: "The government is not listening. Revolution cannot happen without violence." Many on the outskirts of smaller provincial towns and villages have expressed anger, underlining the gap between metropolitan elites and working-class voters that has boosted anti-establishment politics across the Western world. "Mr Macron wrote a book called Revolution. He was prophetic because it is what he has managed to launch, but not the revolution he sought," Far-left La France Insoumise leader Jean-Luc Melenchon told reporters ahead of a protest in Marseille. The yellow vests, who enjoy widespread public support, get their name from the high-visibility jackets all motorists in France must carry in their vehicles. The protests have caught Macron off-guard just as he was trying to counter a fall in his popularity rating to 30 per cent. His unyielding response has exposed him to charges of being out of touch with ordinary people.

French police clash with 'yellow vest' protesters in Paris, 169 arrested

Police fired tear gas, stun grenades and water cannon in battles with "yellow vest" protesters around the Champs Elysees in Paris on Saturday, marking the third weekend of demonstrations across France against high living costs.

Police said 122 people had been arrested amid concerns that violent far-right and far-left groups were infiltrating the "yellow vests" movement, a spontaneous grassroots rebellion over the struggle of many in France to make ends meet.

For more than two weeks, the "gilets jaunes" (yellow vests) have blocked roads in protests across France, posing one of the largest and most sustained challenges Emmanuel Macron has faced in his 18-month-old presidency.

In Paris, masked and hooded protesters picked up and hurled crowd barriers and other projectiles in running battles with police around the world famous Champs Elysees boulevard.

Six policemen and 14 protesters have been injured, Paris police said.

"We are attached to dialogue, but also the respect for the law," Edouard Philippe told reporters. "I am shocked by the attacks on the symbols of France."

Several hundred yellow vests sat down around the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier under the Arc de Triomphe at the top of the avenue, singing La Marseillaise, France's national anthem, and chanting, "Macron Resign!"

On the facade of the towering 19th-century arch, protesters scrawled in big black letters: "The yellow vests will triumph."

After several hours of skirmishes in the morning, police had appeared to clear the area around the Arc, but rioters and peaceful protesters subsequently returned. Clashes in adjacent streets also broke out where barricades were put up, car windows were smashed and at least two vehicles set alight.

Along the Champs Elysees, peaceful demonstrators held up a slogan reading, "Macron, stop treating us like idiots!"

Macron won't&nbsp;be bounced by 'thugs'

Macron said on Tuesday he understood the anger felt by voters outside France's big cities over the squeeze that fuel prices have put on households, but insisted he would not be bounced into changing policy by "thugs".

Police unions said across France there were some 31,000 protesters and 582 road blockages.

A week ago thousands of protesters, who have no leader and have largely organised themselves online, converged on Paris for the first time, turning the Champs Elysees into a battle zone as they clashed with police firing tear gas and water cannon.

"What message do the yellow vests want to pass today? That we set France on fire, or find solutions? I find this (violence) absurd," Jacline Mouraud, a prominent activist within the yellow vests movement, told BFM television.

But a retired yellow-vest protester said: "The government is not listening. Revolution cannot happen without violence."

The outburst of anger is strongest on the outskirts of smaller provincial towns and villages, and underlines the gap between metropolitan elites and working-class voters that has boosted anti-establishment politics across the Western world.

The immediate trigger for the protest wave was Macron's decision to raise tax on diesel fuel in a move to encourage the driving of less-polluting cars.

The yellow vests take their name from the high-visibility jackets all motorists in France must carry in their vehicles.

Ahead of Saturday's protests, workmen erected metal barriers and plywood boards on the glass-fronted facades of restaurants and boutiques lining the Champs Elysees, which was closed to traffic with pedestrians funnelled through checkpoints.

For now, the "yellow vests" enjoy widespread public support.

When they began, the protests caught Macron off-guard just as he was trying to counter a fall in his popularity rating to 30 per cent. His unyielding response has exposed him to charges of being out of touch with ordinary people.

Police fired tear gas, stun grenades and water cannon in battles with "yellow vest" protesters around the Champs Elysees in Paris on Saturday, marking the third weekend of demonstrations across France against high living costs.

Police fired tear gas, stun grenades and water cannon in battles with "yellow vest" protesters around the Champs Elysees in Paris on Saturday, marking the third weekend of demonstrations across France against high living costs. Police said 122 people had been arrested amid concerns that violent far-right and far-left groups were infiltrating the "yellow vests" movement, a spontaneous grassroots rebellion over the struggle of many in France to make ends meet. For more than two weeks, the "gilets jaunes" (yellow vests) have blocked roads in protests across France, posing one of the largest and most sustained challenges Emmanuel Macron has faced in his 18-month-old presidency. In Paris, masked and hooded protesters picked up and hurled crowd barriers and other projectiles in running battles with police around the world famous Champs Elysees boulevard. Six policemen and 14 protesters have been injured, Paris police said. "We are attached to dialogue, but also the respect for the law," Edouard Philippe told reporters. "I am shocked by the attacks on the symbols of France." Several hundred yellow vests sat down around the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier under the Arc de Triomphe at the top of the avenue, singing La Marseillaise, France's national anthem, and chanting, "Macron Resign!" On the facade of the towering 19th-century arch, protesters scrawled in big black letters: "The yellow vests will triumph." After several hours of skirmishes in the morning, police had appeared to clear the area around the Arc, but rioters and peaceful protesters subsequently returned. Clashes in adjacent streets also broke out where barricades were put up, car windows were smashed and at least two vehicles set alight. Along the Champs Elysees, peaceful demonstrators held up a slogan reading, "Macron, stop treating us like idiots!" Macron won't be bounced by 'thugs' Macron said on Tuesday he understood the anger felt by voters outside France's big cities over the squeeze that fuel prices have put on households, but insisted he would not be bounced into changing policy by "thugs". Police unions said across France there were some 31,000 protesters and 582 road blockages. A week ago thousands of protesters, who have no leader and have largely organised themselves online, converged on Paris for the first time, turning the Champs Elysees into a battle zone as they clashed with police firing tear gas and water cannon. "What message do the yellow vests want to pass today? That we set France on fire, or find solutions? I find this (violence) absurd," Jacline Mouraud, a prominent activist within the yellow vests movement, told BFM television. But a retired yellow-vest protester said: "The government is not listening. Revolution cannot happen without violence." The outburst of anger is strongest on the outskirts of smaller provincial towns and villages, and underlines the gap between metropolitan elites and working-class voters that has boosted anti-establishment politics across the Western world. The immediate trigger for the protest wave was Macron's decision to raise tax on diesel fuel in a move to encourage the driving of less-polluting cars. The yellow vests take their name from the high-visibility jackets all motorists in France must carry in their vehicles. Ahead of Saturday's protests, workmen erected metal barriers and plywood boards on the glass-fronted facades of restaurants and boutiques lining the Champs Elysees, which was closed to traffic with pedestrians funnelled through checkpoints. For now, the "yellow vests" enjoy widespread public support. When they began, the protests caught Macron off-guard just as he was trying to counter a fall in his popularity rating to 30 per cent. His unyielding response has exposed him to charges of being out of touch with ordinary people.

France fuel protest: Riot police fire tear gas at 'yellow vest' protestors, 122 detained

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