The rise in the cost of living has fueled social unrest in Europe and could provide a new boost to far-right parties in the run-up to next year’s elections in several countries, including France. But the dissatisfaction of the people and the radical protests in recent days in France seem to be exploited even by administrations in the USA or Russia.
The war between the USA and Iran, which broke out in February and caused a sharp increase in energy prices, has exacerbated the problems faced by European governments already struggling to keep inflation under control, support economic growth, and limit spending.
The European Commission estimates that the conflict with Iran has cost Europe approximately 100 billion euros due to disruptions in the trade and energy markets. Gasoline prices have risen by approximately 140%, and diesel prices have doubled, Reuters reports.
This started to be seen on the street.
In France, the demonstrations that began in the high schools of northern Paris, due to dissatisfaction with the conditions in education, have transformed into a broader protest movement against the cost of living.
On Saturday, the protests degenerated into violence, some protesters clashed with law enforcement, looted and destroyed shops, and wrecked a 19th-century town hall in Limoges.
In a speech held over the weekend, French President Emmanuel Macron acknowledged the “legitimate demands” of protesters dissatisfied with the rising cost of living and fuel prices, while at the same time condemning those responsible for violence and looting.
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