Paris protest ends in clashes with police

A Paris march over youth and cost-of-living grievances ended in clashes with police on Saturday after large crowds joined the main demonstration.

Authorities estimated 110,000 people took part in the main march, while the organising CGT union put the figure at 250,000. About 70,000 security personnel were deployed across France after rioting a week earlier raised questions about preparations for new demonstrations.

The march through eastern Paris began in a festive atmosphere, with music, chants and residents cheering from windows. The mood changed near the end of the route, where police officers and vans were waiting.

Some protesters fired fireworks towards law enforcement officers. Police repeatedly charged protesters, many of them young, using tear gas and batons, an AFP journalist witnessed. As night fell, police began clearing the streets and protesters started to disperse.

The movement began in late September with secondary school students protesting over learning conditions before spreading nationwide as anger over the rising cost of living drew broader support. Some young protesters said the police response had strengthened their concerns about the right to protest.