May Day protests in Paris turn violent as riot police clash with protesters | World News

In Paris, riot police clashed with protesters during May Day demonstrations on Wednesday, resulting in the arrest of 45 individuals and injuries to 12 officers. The protests, which were more subdued compared to the previous year, saw police using tear gas and batons to disperse the crowd.

The French capital saw an estimated 18,000 protesters, according to the police, while the hard-left CGT union claimed the number was closer to 50,000. The protesters expressed their grievances over the rising cost of living and the proposed reforms to unemployment benefits. Some demonstrators also waved Palestinian flags in solidarity with Gaza.

Overall, approximately 121,000 individuals participated in May Day rallies across France, as reported by the police, while the CGT union put the number at 200,000. This turnout was significantly lower than the over two million people who participated in the 2023 May Day protests, which were fueled by opposition to President Emmanuel Macron’s pension reforms.

The clashes between riot police and protesters highlight the ongoing social and political tensions in France, with citizens voicing their concerns through public demonstrations. The May Day protests serve as a platform for individuals to express their dissatisfaction with government policies and advocate for social change.