More than half a million people have protested across France, and reports say more than 1,200 have been arrested.
In Paris, police and protesters clashed for several hours on the Place de la République as anger against the French government turned to violence. Stun grenades and tear gas were used. Similar scenes unfolded elsewhere in the city, with vehicles on fire, debris on roads, and dozens of shops vandalised.
A yellow vest protester, Yellow Beard, said they want fiscal, social, and legal justice and direct democracy, adding, “We are peaceful people”.
Many students also joined in, some of whom have protested for weeks demanding the government improve the education system.
Social tensions have simmered in France, and pressure is now on ministers to restore calm.
Al Jazeera’s Natacha Butler reports from Paris.
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