In brief
French President Emmanuel Macron address the nation urging calm after large demonstrations on fuel prices and cost of living spilled into riots. Roughly 550,000 protesters marched in cities such as Paris, Marseille and Lille, with police arresting 2,400 and recording 1,000 injuries. Macron has distinguished between legitimate demands and violent acts, pledging justice for those who looted and calling for unity. The protests have drawn criticism from conservative circles for undermining public order while left-leaning groups cite systemic inequality. Authorities promise full transparency on the police response and have pledged protection for affected businesses.
French President Emmanuel Macron addressed the nation from the Élysée Palace on Sunday, calling for calm after a wave of protests turned into riots across the country.
Around 550,000 people took to the streets in cities such as Paris, Marseille, Lille and Lyon to protest rising fuel prices, the cost of living and a perceived decline in public services, especially schools.
While the majority of demonstrators remained peaceful, police reports indicate that some groups—often described in media as wearing masks and black clothing—set fire to cars and buildings and engaged in looting.
Macron distinguished between “legitimate demands” and “those who destroyed”, warning that the violent actions would be prosecuted. He appealed for unity and announced that local prefects and mayors would work with national forces to protect businesses.
Authorities recorded roughly 2,400 arrests and 1,000 police injuries, with seven officers seriously hurt in clashes where tear gas and water cannons were deployed.
Civic groups on the left argue the protests highlight systemic inequality, while conservative voices criticize the spill‑over violence as undermining public order. The government has pledged full transparency on its police response.
Surveys suggest a growing segment of the population feels “anger and shame” over the country’s economic trajectory, a sentiment Macron acknowledges, yet urges citizens to channel their frustration through lawful means.
