Police arrested dozens and used tear gas and water cannons to disperse crowds across France on Saturday, October 24, 2026, as nationwide protests over the cost of living continued. The French Interior Ministry reported that 410,000 people participated in demonstrations, while trade unions estimated the turnout was closer to 820,000. While many rallies were peaceful, evening skirmishes occurred in Paris and Marseille, following a previous weekend in which 3,000 buildings were damaged or looted.
The current unrest follows large-scale riots on October 17, which led to at least 2,400 arrests and significant property damage. In response, authorities deployed 70,000 officers nationwide on Saturday, including 10,000 more than the previous week. The movement originally began last month with student protests regarding school conditions in southeast Paris but expanded into a broader movement against government economic policies.
In Paris, police moved the primary authorized march to the Porte d'Italie on the city's rim, where at least 110,000 people gathered. Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez reported 135 arrests by Saturday afternoon and the seizure of weapons including slingshots, fireworks, and a katana. In Orleans, thousands marched against a National Rally party congress led by Marine Le Pen, who is campaigning for the presidency. Related protests were also reported in Italy, Belgium, and Albania.
The government response involves the mobilization of 70,000 police officers and gendarmes, armored vehicles, and helicopters. In Italy, the government deployed an additional 500 soldiers to Milan to deter further looting. Individuals arrested face significant legal consequences; as of October 20, 2026, more than 800 people had been sent before prosecutors, with some first-time offenders receiving immediate prison sentences of 10 months for property crimes. French authorities have indicated a policy of seeking firm penalties to discourage further property damage.
The protests have influenced major public events, leading to the postponement of a Paris Saint-Germain soccer match and the cancellation of weekend programs for the Art Basel fair. The French National Assembly has launched an inquiry into the violence and policing strategies, with findings expected by the end of 2026. Protesters, including the "Yellow Vests," have called for further rallies and sit-ins on October 31, 2026. Presidential elections are scheduled to take place in six months.