France reviews public order policing after violent protests over living costs

France reeled Monday after a weekend of nationwide unrest erupted over the rising cost of living and high‑school students’ demand for more education funding. Violent clashes broke out in cities from Paris to Marseille, leaving police officers and demonstrators wounded, public buildings set ablaze and shops looted. The turmoil forced authorities to confront the tactics of the French police in handling public order.

The protests stem from deepening economic pressure on households and a growing sense that the government is neglecting education. Inflation has pushed food and energy prices higher than any level in a decade, while cuts to school budgets have sparked anger among students and teachers. Organisers say the demonstrations are a last resort after months of petitions and strikes failed to produce change. The timing coincides with a looming parliamentary debate on tax reforms, adding political urgency to the street anger.

In the clashes, at least twenty police officers and fifteen protesters were reported injured, according to hospital data. Firefighters battled flames that consumed parts of a municipal office in Lyon and a cultural centre in Nice. Retailers in Bordeaux reported losses exceeding €200,000 after looters broke into storefronts. Police used tear gas and water cannons, tactics that have drawn criticism from civil‑rights groups who argue the response was disproportionate. Government spokespersons defended the force’s actions, saying they were necessary to protect citizens and restore order.

The government now faces pressure to review its policing policies and address the grievances that sparked the unrest. Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin announced an internal audit of crowd‑control measures and pledged a meeting with student representatives next week. Opposition parties are calling for a parliamentary inquiry into police conduct and for a broader discussion on cost‑of‑living measures. How France balances security with civil liberties could shape public trust ahead of the upcoming local elections.