PARIS: Protests against rising inflation and government policies are spreading across Europe, with thousands of people taking to the streets in several countries to voice their grievances.
According to foreign media reports, around 320,000 people participated in demonstrations across France. Although the turnout was lower than the previous week’s protests, the government deployed approximately 70,000 police officers to maintain law and order and prevent further unrest.
Clashes broke out between police and protesters in Paris, where incidents of vandalism and arson were reported. A vehicle was also set on fire during the demonstrations. According to the French Interior Ministry, a curfew was imposed in certain areas of Paris from 11 pm to 6 am.
In Germany, young people staged demonstrations in several cities, including Munich and Berlin, attracting more than 180,000 participants. Several protesters were arrested in Berlin, while clashes between demonstrators and police were reported in Hamburg and Frankfurt. In Frankfurt, masked protesters reportedly looted several shops.
Protests were also held in Italy, where students and workers demanded higher wages and measures to control inflation. Meanwhile, in Albania, demonstrators called for the resignation of the prime minister, adding to the growing wave of public discontent across Europe.