What happened
The Paris Police Prefecture denied numerous permit requests for protests across the capital, citing October riots that produced thousands of arrests and violent clashes between demonstrators and law enforcement. Police said certain individuals had targeted public buildings and state services in ways that threatened public institutions, officer safety, and the functioning of public services.
France's Interior Ministry anticipated 170,000 protesters nationwide on Saturday, marking the fourth consecutive week of demonstrations. The government deployed 70,000 security forces to manage the unrest.
Despite the ban, Yellow Vest members gathered at Place de la Concorde. Benjamin Ball of the Yellow Vests coordination group and spokesperson Azelma Sigaux were arrested early Saturday afternoon near the National Assembly, according to Agence France-Presse.
Videos and photos from Paris showed tear gas, fires, and police detaining rioters. Authorities also reported that demonstrators threw projectiles at police. Protesters are demonstrating against high living costs, with student and teacher unions joining Yellow Vest rallies.
French Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu is scheduled to meet union leaders on Monday to discuss wages and purchasing power. Union leaders have called for additional strikes on Tuesday, saying they are in a position of strength while the government appears to be yielding.
