French authorities are facing pressure to restore order after a weekend of demonstrations over the cost of living, education and public services turned violent in several cities.
Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu convened crisis discussions as police responded to clashes, looting and damage to businesses. Authorities arrested thousands of people, while officials reported serious injuries among protesters and members of the security services. Reports said two people were killed.
Lecornu said local curfews could be used where authorities considered them necessary and did not rule out a state of emergency. He said partial curfews appeared more appropriate at that stage.
President Emmanuel Macron rejected Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez’s offer to resign, while acknowledging shortcomings in how authorities anticipated and responded to the unrest. Macron said those responsible for destruction and looting would be held accountable.
The protests grew out of weeks of student and teacher demonstrations over school conditions and resources, then broadened as more people joined with grievances over prices and deteriorating public services. Some businesses were damaged or looted during the weekend.
The government now faces the challenge of containing further violence while responding to the concerns that brought demonstrators into the streets. Officials have signalled additional security measures as protests continue to test public order and Macron’s administration.
