Paris. Many major countries of Europe, including France, witnessed unprecedented and violent demonstrations on Saturday against skyrocketing inflation, low wages and the poor condition of public services. Lakhs of citizens took to the streets of France, Belgium, Italy and Portugal, which quickly turned into violent clashes. There were clashes between protesters and security forces in many cities, looting of shops and incidents of arson created chaos. The police released tear gas shells and used force to control the angry crowd.
Widespread violence and damage to historic buildings in France
In France alone, about 5.5 lakh people participated in these demonstrations, expressing deep anger against rising fuel prices, high cost of living and the poor condition of schools. Dozens of shops were targeted and looted in many cities including the capital Paris, Marseille, Nice, Nantes and Strasbourg. Flames continued to rage late into the evening in Paris, where the roof of a 143-year-old historic French monument was set ablaze, causing its roof to collapse. Additionally, nearly two-thirds of the town hall in the city of Limoges was completely destroyed by a fire set by protesters.
Administrative strictness and warning from President Emmanuel Macron
During these violent demonstrations, security forces took action and detained at least 195 people. Meanwhile, questions are also being raised on the functioning of the police as cases of jaw breaking of a teenager and use of inappropriate force by an officer have come to light during the operation. French President Emmanuel Macron has strongly condemned those spreading anarchy under the guise of peaceful demonstrations. He has warned in clear words that the miscreants who vandalize and loot administrative offices, business establishments and town halls will be identified and strict cases will be initiated against them and they will not be spared.
Violent movements also took place in Belgium, Portugal and Italy
This dissatisfaction with inflation and public problems spread to other countries of Europe also. Police in the Belgian capital Brussels and the city of Liège used tear gas and water cannon to disperse unruly crowds as protesters pelted security personnel with stones and torches. On the other hand, in Portugal’s capital Lisbon, thousands of people protested against the severe housing shortage, skyrocketing rents and low salaries. However, the Portuguese government has made it clear that it will not bow down to public pressure. Additionally, protesters also clashed with police in Milan and Bologna, Italy, which has greatly increased the problems of European governments.
