Brief Published (Dubai time, UTC+4) · event date: 2026-10-17
French President Emmanuel Macron stated on Sunday that “nothing justifies” the violence observed during protests the previous day, which saw hundreds of thousands take to the streets to protest against rising living costs and poor school conditions.
These gatherings were marked by violent clashes between protest groups and law enforcement, as well as acts of looting. More than 2,300 people were arrested over the weekend, according to authorities.
In his address to the nation, Emmanuel Macron emphasized the seriousness of these violent incidents while acknowledging the legitimacy of the social demands expressed by peaceful demonstrators.
