French police arrested more than 1,000 people during nationwide demonstrations over the rising cost of living and conditions in the education system, as clashes erupted in several cities.
Tensions continued in Paris, where riot police intervened to clear students blocking Sciences Po. Footage from the institution showed officers charging towards protesters, pushing some against a railing and knocking a man carrying a megaphone to the ground.
Police officers advanced on the crowd and used batons as demonstrators moved back. The intervention was aimed at evacuating students who had blocked access to the institution.
The incident comes amid renewed unrest across France, with demonstrations highlighting concerns over living expenses and the state of the education system.
Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez said 53 police officers were injured during the demonstrations on Saturday. According to the Interior Ministry, approximately 410,000 people participated in 298 protests nationwide, while the General Confederation of Labour estimated the turnout at around 800,000.
Although many marches remained peaceful, clashes were reported in Paris and other cities. Authorities have increased security measures and police checks following incidents of violence and damage to businesses during earlier demonstrations.
