France Deploys 70,000 Police For Halloween Protests

France has deployed 70,000 police officers nationwide to prevent new unrest during nationwide protests scheduled for Saturday, following growing anger over living costs, public services, and President Emmanuel Macron’s government.

According to Reuters, Interior Minister Laurent Nunez has promised a firm response to any new violence.

“Everyone is on deck to ensure an extremely firm response to any trouble,” Nunez told a news conference earlier this week.

He described Saturday’s demonstrations as carrying “a very high risk” of unrest.

The security operation follows riots and looting two weeks ago that caught authorities off guard. The violence left shops, public buildings and businesses damaged in several French cities. Authorities are also concerned that people could use Halloween masks to hide their identities.

Nunez said existing laws allow police to ban face coverings when public order is at risk. Meanwhile, the US Embassy in France has advised travellers to avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are planned.

The protests gained momentum in late September after Macron’s minority government began discussions on the 2027 budget.

France is facing public debt approaching 120 per cent of its economic output, alongside rising borrowing costs. The government is under pressure to reduce spending, limiting its ability to respond to public demands.

Students protesting poor school conditions, overcrowded classrooms and an admissions system they consider unfair have joined trade unions and members of the revived Yellow Vest movement. The people are demanding action on the rising cost of living and poor public services.

The demonstrations have also inspired youth-led protests across Europe. More than 30 cities in Germany are expected to hold rallies on Saturday. However, government promises to reform education and reduce fuel costs have failed to ease public anger.

The unrest has also affected France’s political landscape. Far-right leader Marine Le Pen has gained political support and is leading opinion polls before the presidential election scheduled for April.

Meanwhile, potential centrist successors to Macron remain divided. The protests have added to pressure on an already struggling economy. Data released on Friday showed that the French economy unexpectedly contracted in the third quarter.

The Chamber of Commerce estimates that damage to retailers has exceeded €1 billion ($1.1 billion). Other estimates put the losses at twice that amount when uninsured damage and lost revenue are included.

In Paris, some major shopping streets still show signs of the previous unrest. Christmas lights now shine above boarded-up shop windows and security grilles.

Luxury stores belonging to brands such as Hermès, Louis Vuitton and Burberry were among those targeted during earlier disturbances.

In response, the government is pushing ahead with a controversial law that would make rioters pay up to €10,000 ($11,000) for damage they cause or for damage caused by groups they are considered part of.

However, rights groups and some lawyers have criticised the proposal, warning that it could weaken the right to peaceful protest.