Europe in economic turmoil, French Police clash with protesters

France is facing protests over the cost of living crisis fueled by soaring inflation. Police have clashed with the protesters venting anger in the capital Paris.

According to Press TV, protesters were met with police brutality. Police used batons to disperse the protesters who were throwing rocks at security forces.

There are calls by trade unions for a nationwide transport strike. Unions now say it's time to expand industrial action at oil refineries to other sectors.

Protesters and strikers say they need a substantial pay rise to cope with the soaring cost of living. France is currently experiencing inflation at 6.2%; the highest rate in decades.

Striking workers are demanding higher wages from the profits of energy companies amid high oil and gas prices. Protesters have demanded emergency measures against high prices, including freezing the cost of energy.

The industrial action has taken offline more than 60% of France's refining capacity.

The Macron government is also on the defensive in Parliament where it lost its majority in legislative elections in June.

It is much more difficult for Macron's centrist alliance to implement his agenda.

France is not the only country in Europe that is facing protest. European countries are facing ever-increasing strikes and protests due to high energy prices and the mounting cost of living.

The UK economy shrank by 0.3% in August, it experienced a 10.2% inflation rate in September, which was the highest in 40 years, and with the resignation of the Prime Minister, Liz Truss, the economic outlook for Britain is set to get worse.

ME