Protests that began in France a few weeks ago escalated into nationwide demonstrations on October 17, 2026. Hundreds of thousands of people took to the streets in Paris and other cities, with organizers claiming up to 800,000 participants.
Causes of the Protests
The main reasons for the protests include:
- Rising cost of living;
- Deterioration of public services;
- Social inequality and dissatisfaction with government policies.
Protesters express their discontent over increasing prices for essential goods and services, which significantly affect their daily lives.
Riots and Violence
In several cities, the protests turned violent and chaotic. Radical groups of protesters:
- Attacked police officers;
- Looted stores;
- Set fire to administrative buildings.
The Mayor of Paris, Emmanuel Grégoire, stated that the consequences of the riots would be "severe" and "widespread." In Marseille, dozens of demonstrators broke into the town hall shouting, "This is a revolution, we are taking the Bastille!" In Lille, Lyon, and Grenoble, protesters also attempted to breach town hall buildings.
Government Response and Consequences
According to the Ministry of the Interior, about 400 people have been arrested. During the dispersal of the protests, police used stun grenades and water cannons. One protester suffered severe injuries when his hand was severed by a grenade. President Emmanuel Macron condemned the violence and promised to punish those responsible.
Additionally, it has been reported that protest actions, partially inspired by the events in France, took place in Belgium, Albania, Portugal, and Italy.