French President Macron Urges Calm Amid Widespread Protests Over Cost of Living

According to the International Desk of Webangah News Agency, French President Emmanuel Macron urged citizens to exercise self-restraint and maintain calm ahead of large-scale nationwide protests anticipated on Saturday, demonstrating against the soaring cost of living in the country. This comes as security forces have intensified efforts in recent weeks to suppress student-led demonstrations, fueling concerns about the potential for increased violence during public protests regarding rising prices and household expenses.

Previously, with presidential elections in April and May a few months away, local authorities had banned demonstrations in the heart of the capital. The “Yellow Vest” movement, which led widespread protests against Macron and his government eight years ago, announced a demonstration for Saturday under the banner of unity between “Yellow Vests and youth,” calling on teachers, workers, retirees, farmers, and students to participate in the gathering.

Last Tuesday, protests solely involving French students saw 256,000 participants nationwide and 56,000 in Paris. During these demonstrations, 488 individuals were arrested, and 43 police and security personnel were injured. These protests were part of an ongoing movement spearheaded by high school students. Organizers claimed 450,000 people participated in marches across France, with 100,000 protesters converging in the capital.