Protests engulf Europe: People take to streets in France, Albania, Italy, Spain, Portugal

Protests sweep Europe as thousands take to streets across countries Thousands of people took to the streets across Europe over the weekend to protest against rising living costs, housing affordability, pensions, education standards, alleged corruption and war, with demonstrations in several countries leading to clashes with police and tighter security measures.France, Albania, Italy, Spain and Portugal witnessed rallies on Saturday, with demonstrators raising demands ranging from action against government corruption and investment in education to protection of public pensions and access to affordable housing.Authorities deployed additional police personnel and, in some areas, soldiers after violence during earlier demonstrations. While several rallies remained peaceful, others saw protesters throw projectiles at police, set fires and damage property.France sees arrests as protests turn violentIn France, nearly 1,000 people had been arrested during Saturday's demonstrations, interior minister Laurent Nuñez said, adding that the figure was likely to rise further.The government estimated that 410,000 people had taken part in protests nationwide, while organisers put the turnout at nea...