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French government extends curfews after riots sweep across the country
CBS News • • world
Key Points:
- French authorities are imposing extended curfews and increasing police presence in public spaces following violent riots that included arson and looting during recent protests.
- The government distinguishes between peaceful protesters demanding better education and living conditions and violent rioters, blaming radical groups for the unrest while pledging to both listen and enforce law and order.
- The protests, initially sparked by student demands for improved school conditions, have expanded to include trade unions and grassroots activists protesting high living costs and declining public services.
- France faces significant financial constraints with high public debt and rising interest payments, complicating the government's ability to implement broad reforms amid political gridlock and a fractured parliament.
- President Macron's approval rating is low ahead of the April presidential election, with opposition figures from both far-right and far-left parties gaining significant support.
