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France is deploying 70,000 police officers across the country to prevent fresh unrest during nationwide protests on Saturday, fuelled by anger over the cost of living, public services and President Emmanuel Macron’s government, Reuters reported.
The Halloween-day demonstrations come two weeks after riots and looting caught security forces off guard, damaging shops, public buildings and businesses in several French cities. Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez has vowed to prevent a repeat of the violence.
Outlining security measures at a news conference earlier this week, Nuñez said authorities were prepared to respond firmly to any disorder, describing Saturday as a day of exceptionally high risk of unrest.
Authorities are also concerned that rioters could use Halloween masks to conceal their identities. Nuñez said existing legislation already empowers police to prohibit face coverings when public order is threatened.
The US embassy has advised its citizens to avoid areas where protests or large gatherings are planned.
Protests gained momentum in late September as Macron’s minority government began discussions on the 2027 budget.
France’s public debt has climbed to around 120 per cent of gross domestic product, while borrowing costs are also rising, putting the government under pressure to rein in spending and leaving it with limited room for manoeuvre.
Students angered by deteriorating conditions in many schools, overcrowded classrooms and a university admissions system widely perceived as unfair have joined trade unions and a revived Yellow Vests movement in demanding action to address the rising cost of living.
The demonstrations reflect mounting frustration over living expenses, public services and the government’s economic policies, adding to pressure on Macron’s administration.
