Macron Condemns Violence and Looting During France’s Nationwide Protests

French President Emmanuel Macron has strongly condemned the violence, looting and attacks on public buildings during nationwide protests against the rising cost of living, saying: “Tonight, we all feel anger and shame.” He stressed a clear distinction between peaceful protesters with legitimate demands and those involved in violence.
In a televised address, Macron said the scenes of French citizens damaging their own country were unacceptable and asked: “How can French people do this to France?” He said nothing could justify the destruction, vandalism and looting.
An estimated 550,000 people joined the October 17 protests according to official figures, while organisers put the turnout at 800,000. What began as a student movement against teacher shortages and poor school facilities grew into nationwide demonstrations over inflation, living costs and economic inequality.
Looting, vehicle and building fires, and clashes with police were reported in Paris, Marseille, Lyon, Bordeaux, Rennes, Strasbourg, Grenoble and Nice. In central France, a fire badly damaged Limoges’ historic town hall, causing part of its roof to collapse.
French authorities said nearly 2,400 people were arrested nationwide after the riots, looting and arson, while almost 1,000 police officers were injured. Macron said looters would have to pay for the damage and that those who sought to bring down the Republic would be held accountable.
Before his address, Macron held an emergency meeting with senior officials and ordered a review of whether intelligence-gathering, police preparedness or security arrangements had failed before the protests. He also discussed giving local authorities powers to ban certain gatherings where there was a risk of violence.
Interior Minister Laurent Nunez backed the right to protest peacefully but condemned the violence and looting. Right-wing leaders criticised the government over public order, while left-wing figures raised questions about economic grievances and police conduct.
The crisis has hit Macron as France faces economic pressure, budget problems and political divisions. Attention is now on whether the government can combine action against rioters with answers to public concerns over education and the rising cost of living