Protesters clash with Paris police as Block Everything movement gains momentum

"French interior minister Bruno Retailleau announced there had been nearly 200 arrests in the first hours of the planned day of nationwide protests. He added that a bus was set on fire in the western city of Rennes, while damage to a power line blocked trains on a line in the south-west. Mr Retailleau alleged that protesters are attempting to create "a climate of insurrection"."

"The "Bloquons Tout" (Block Everything) movement had gathered momentum on social media and in encrypted chats over the summer. Its call for a day of blockades, strikes, demonstrations, and other acts of protest comes as Mr Macron - one of the movement's main targets - installed his fourth prime minister in 12 months. The movement, which has grown virally with no clear identified leadership, has a broad array of demands."

"Many of these target the contested belt-tightening budget plans that Mr Bayrou championed before his removal - as well as broader complaints about inequality. Calls online for strikes, boycotts, blockades and other forms of protest on Wednesday have been accompanied with appeals to avoid violence. The spontaneity of "Block Everything" is reminiscent of the "Yellow Vest" movement that rocked Mr Macron's first term as president."

Nationwide protests called 'Bloquons Tout' aim to disrupt activity across France in response to austerity measures, inequality, and recent political changes. Nearly 200 arrests occurred in the first hours, with a bus set on fire in Rennes and damage to a power line blocking trains in the south-west. The movement gained momentum on social media and encrypted chats over the summer and lacks clear leadership. Demonstrators target belt-tightening budget plans championed by Francois Bayrou and broader economic grievances. Calls for strikes, blockades and boycotts include appeals to avoid violence. The spontaneity of the movement echoes the earlier Yellow Vest protests.

Read at Irish Independent