Tens Of Thousands Protest In France Against Far-Right Parties Ahead Of Snap Elections

Tens of thousands of people took to the streets in France on Saturday to protest against far-right parties ahead of snap parliamentary elections. Organized by anti-racism groups, French unions, and a new left-wing coalition, the protests aimed to demonstrate opposition to the rising nationalist far-right movement.

According to La Dépêche, about 350,000 people participated in the demonstrations nationwide, with 21,000 police officers mobilized to ensure security. While the protests were largely peaceful, some clashes were reported between police and protesters in Rennes and Paris. The gatherings highlighted widespread discontent and fear regarding the potential influence of far-right parties on France's political landscape.

Why This Matters: In Paris, protesters convened at Place de la République before marching through eastern Paris. Many demonstrators held signs reading "Liberty for all, Equality for all, and Fraternity with all," echoing France's national motto. Others chanted slogans against the National Rally, a far-right party that recently achieved significant gains in the European Parliament elections.

The protests come in the wake of President Emmanuel Macron's announcement of snap legislative elections, scheduled to be held in two rounds on June 30 and July 7. This decision followed his centrist alliance's defeat by the National Rally in the European Parliament ballot last Sunday. The rise of the far-right party has alarmed many in France, prompting the large-scale mobilization.

A series of opinion polls have indicated that the National Rally could perform strongly in the upcoming legislative elections, potentially positioning itself to influence the government. A poll conducted for Le Point magazine published on Friday projected the National Rally leading in the first round with 29.5% of the vote, narrowly ahead of a coalition of left-wing parties called the Popular Front, which polled at 28.5%. Macron's centrist camp was projected at 18%.

These protests reflect a significant portion of the French population's determination to resist the far-right's growing influence. Demonstrators aimed to send a clear message that they oppose the National Rally's policies and what they represent.

Key Takeaways:

• Tens of thousands protest in France against far-right parties.
• Protests organized by anti-racism groups, French unions, and a new left-wing coalition.
• About 350,000 people participate in actions across the country.
• 21,000 police officers mobilized to ensure security.
• Protests largely peaceful, but some clashes reported between police and protesters.