On Saturday, 17 October 2026, students, union members and Yellow Vest supporters joined France's cost-of-living protests over rising prices and school conditions. Police used tear gas and water cannon in Paris, where shops were looted and groups clashed with officers. Most people marched peacefully, the Associated Press and Reuters reported.
Student demonstrations had begun weeks earlier over poor school conditions, including teacher shortages. Calls to join the rallies widened the movement, bringing in trade unions and supporters of the Yellow Vest movement, which emerged in 2018. Protesters also called for higher wages and pensions, lower prices and protection for public services.
