France protests: Fires and clashes erupt as thousands rally over cost of living and education
Al Jazeera English · Published on October 17, 2026
Description
Tens of thousands of demonstrators have taken to the streets across France to protest rising living costs, inequality and government spending policies. A tourism office was set on fire in Lyon, while vehicles and a newspaper kiosk were torched in Paris. Police fired tear gas and stun grenades as clashes erupted in several cities, with more than 250 people arrested nationwide. The demonstrations have brought together students, teachers, trade unions and members of the Yellow Vest movement. Protesters are demanding better school facilities, more teachers and greater investment in public services. The unrest comes as the French government faces mounting pressure over its spending plans and growing criticism of police tactics. Protesters accuse officers of excessive force, while fears grow that demonstrations could continue ahead of next year's presidential election. Al Jazeera's Rosie Burchard reports from Rennes, and Natacha Butler reports from Paris. Subscribe to our channel: http://bit.ly/AJSubscribe Follow us on X : https://twitter.com/AJEnglish Find us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aljazeera Check our website: http://www.aljazeera.com/ Check out our Instagram page: https://www.instagram.com/aljazeeraenglish/ Download AJE Mobile App: https://aje.news/AJEMobile #FranceProtests #ParisProtests #LyonProtests #YellowVests #FranceUnrest #CostOfLiving #StudentProtests #PoliceClashes #FrenchPolitics #AlJazeeraEnglish
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