Crowds Shrink as Thousands Expected to Protest in France on Halloween Amid Clashes

Crowds and clashes across France

The Interior Ministry estimated that 320,000 people took part in demonstrations nationwide on Saturday. The total was down from 410,000 the previous week and 550,000 two weeks earlier.

Paris police estimated that 70,000 people marched in the capital, compared with 110,000 the previous Saturday. Clashes were reported in Marseille, Lyon, Toulouse and Rennes, where police used tear gas and water cannons to disperse crowds.

A festive Paris march

The Paris demonstration was largely peaceful and playful, with brass bands and people in Halloween costumes. Some marchers said they wanted to counter the impression left by riots on Oct. 17, when demonstrations across France were followed by destruction and looting.

Student concerns and official warnings

Officials said they were especially concerned about possible disorder after nightfall. Mr. Nuñez said some messages called for “revolution” and “insurrection,” and said those gatherings would be banned, with arrests for attempts to proceed.

Social media and far-right groups

Officials have raised concerns that social media can draw people to demonstrations and encourage violent behavior. President Emmanuel Macron denied speculation that the government was considering temporarily suspending several popular sites.

Authorities have also confirmed that groups of young men linked to the far right entered demonstrations. Officials said they presented themselves as protecting shop owners but often clashed with far-left groups.