People are protesting for several reasons in different places:
- In France, there have been nationwide protests against the new government led by Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu, appointed by President Emmanuel Macron. Protesters are angry about ongoing political instability, budget cuts, and austerity measures including cuts to public services. Many demand Macron's resignation or removal, as they feel successive administrations have not represented their interests, especially those on the left and young people. The "Block Everything" movement, a decentralized coalition from social media, has been organizing strikes, demonstrations, and blockades against perceived injustices and social inequality. The protests have sometimes turned violent, with clashes and acts of vandalism reported.
- In London, far-right anti-immigration protests took place, organized by figures like Tommy Robinson. These protests drew over 100,000 participants and included rhetoric around "free speech" and opposition to immigration. The events sparked clashes with police and counter-protesters who oppose racism and fascism. The far-right protesters have expressed concerns over mass migration and governmental policies on immigration, while counter-demonstrators advocate for inclusivity and against hate speech.
So, protests are currently motivated by political dissatisfaction and social justice issues in France, and by far-right anti-immigration and free speech claims in the UK, with significant opposition to these views manifesting in counter-protests as well.
