Nationwide protests in France draw tens of thousands, spark tensions

Initial reports indicate some tensions flared in Paris, Lyon, and Marseille. In Paris, police used tear gas to disperse protesters, and projectiles were thrown at law enforcement in Marseille.

François Pozzo di Borgo, secretary general of the Force ouvrière union representing high schools and colleges, stated, “We need to stop this Parcoursup platform.” Parcoursup is France’s online platform for university admissions.

Patrice Faure, Prefect of Police of Paris, addressed the public following the start of the Parisian demonstration. He emphasized the importance of allowing businesses and residents to live “in complete tranquility.”

The protest procession in Paris began at the Porte de Bagnolet. Jean-Luc Mélenchon, leader of the La France Insoumise (LFI) party, joined the march alongside a delegation of LFI elected officials.

Nicole Richard-Verspieren, president of the Marseille downtown merchants association, said, “As much as we can, we will remain open.”

Hervé Gicquel, the LR mayor of Charenton-le-Pont, commented on the situation, stating, “There is a form of anxiety that is manifest among the merchants.”

One protester described the situation as, “We are depriving ourselves of everything, we are doing nothing.”