France’s student protests turn chaotic; Paris left reeling as authorities report 1,800 arrests

A nationwide day of protest

The student-led protests began in mid-September, driven by concerns including crowded classrooms, teacher shortages, inequality and limited opportunities. Saturday’s demonstrations brought those grievances together in a nationwide mobilisation.

Most demonstrators rallied peacefully, but violent unrest threatened to overshadow their demands. In Paris, police used tear gas and stun grenades heavily, including before the march began.

Violence across several cities

In Marseille, dozens of shops were looted, and people entered the city hall before being forced out. In Limoges, fire spread through the historic city hall, while public buildings were damaged in Bordeaux and other cities.

In Paris, graffiti covered the statue of Marianne, a symbol of the French Republic. One message read, “Those who sow misery reap anger.” Rabah, who has lived in Paris for more than 70 years, called the unrest unacceptable and recalled that demonstrations in his youth had been peaceful. One woman said the violence had eclipsed the reasons behind protesters’ grievances.

Scrutiny of police response

Christophe Calvao, president of the Paris Young Lawyers’ Union, said crowd-control tactics normally used in more serious situations were becoming increasingly routine. He argued that their use heightened tensions and anger.

Government faces political pressure

President Emmanuel Macron was due to address the nation on television at 18:00 GMT on Sunday after meeting government ministers. His second and final term ends next year.

Macron said protesting was a fundamental right but rejected violence and coordinated disorder. Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu plans spending restraint and tax measures to reduce France’s deficit, potentially deepening public anger over changes to the welfare system.

Jean-Luc Melenchon, leader of France Unbowed and a potential presidential contender, accused the government of fuelling unrest. Lecornu responded on social media, assigning political responsibility to Melenchon and accusing far-left groups of organising the violence.