French President Emmanuel Macron has expressed anger and shame over the violence that erupted during nationwide protests, warning that those responsible for rioting, looting and attacks on public property would face consequences. His remarks came after demonstrations over rising living costs and deteriorating public services turned violent in several cities.
Addressing the nation on Sunday, Macron called for a clear distinction between peaceful demonstrators with legitimate grievances and those involved in violence. He said the country needed unity and peace as authorities dealt with the aftermath of clashes, looting and damage to public buildings.
France’s Interior Ministry reported that nearly 2,400 people were arrested on Saturday, while almost 1,000 police officers and gendarmes were injured, seven of them seriously. In Limoges, the historic town hall was set ablaze, while shops and other public buildings were damaged in several cities.
The demonstrations began over the rising cost of living and concerns about public services, including conditions in schools. However, some gatherings descended into violence, with masked groups attacking buildings, looting businesses and clashing with police. The unrest has intensified pressure on the government ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
Political leaders from both the left and the far right criticized the government’s handling of the unrest, although their assessments differed. Left-wing leader Jean-Luc Mélenchon blamed the government for the damage and the breakdown in public order, while far-right National Rally figure Jordan Bardella criticized Macron’s address. The competing reactions have added to the political debate over how France should respond to the unrest.
