Today, October 24, 2026, mass protests have begun in France, raising significant concerns among authorities. It is expected that up to half a million people will take to the streets, prompting the government to implement unprecedented security measures, especially in the capital.
Situation in Clermont-Ferrand and Other Cities
In the city of Clermont-Ferrand, located in the central part of the country, clashes between police and protesters have already been observed. The demonstrators, predominantly youth and teenagers, have taken to the streets with communist flags. Law enforcement has used tear gas to disperse the crowd, leading to an escalation of the situation.
Security Measures in Paris
In Paris, the authorities have taken extraordinary security measures, deploying armored vehicles near key sites such as the Elysée Palace and the National Assembly. A ban on gatherings of officials near the presidential residence and parliamentary chambers has also been imposed. The capital will see the deployment of 70,000 law enforcement officers, including police, gendarmerie, helicopters, and water cannons.
Business Preparations for Protests
Parisian business owners are also preparing for potential unrest by protecting their storefronts with wooden shields and metal barriers. This is due to fears of possible looting and damage during the protests. Meanwhile, cultural sites such as the Louvre, the Orsay Museum, and the Picasso Museum will temporarily close due to the threat of unrest.