Protests began across France after a piece of legislation dubbed the Global Security Law was passed. The most important part of it criminalized taking photos of police that could be used to identify them, which drew thousands into the streets.
Early in the day, protests began, with anarchists numbering in the hundreds and clashing with police in front of the National Assembly at the Sorbonne.
Clashes mostly calmed down until nightfall, where thousands more gathered in Paris, with several unions present as well.
A lawyers’ union held a protest nearby, demonstrating against the outlawing of such videos, as they are key in cases about police brutality against civilians.
The protest became full-blown after confrontations with police occurred, starting the riots in the night. Fires began to be lit, and many seemed ready to clash.
Demonstrators began to throw objects at the police, including water bottles, some rocks, and other trash.
Protesters cornered a group of police, yelling “Flics, violeurs, assassins!” translated to “Cops, rapists, murderers!” More objects were thrown at the police, who proceeded to retreat down the alley and get away from an incredibly angry crowd. Escalations continued, with police being sited preparing tear gas to deploy against the thousands of protesters at the National Assembly.
The police promptly began a counterattack, assaulting demonstrators and deploying tear gas. Journalists were also attacked, with riot police hitting them with shields.
Protests also happened in Nantes, where police tear-gassed union members and arrested several.