France doubles security as student protests expand nationwide

French authorities have mobilized over 70,000 police officers and gendarmes across the country for a second wave of mass demonstrations, marking a significant escalation in security efforts just one week after the worst riots in years. The deployment, which includes an increase of 20 percent in personnel compared to the previous weekend, reflects a determined effort by the government to avoid a repeat of the chaotic events of October 17. That day saw largely peaceful protests turn into widespread looting and clashes, resulting in thousands of damaged businesses and more than 2,000 arrests. By early Saturday afternoon, police reported that the situation remained calm despite the large turnout, with at least 135 arrests made nationwide and various weapons seized.

The primary focus of the current unrest is the deteriorating state of the education system and the rising cost of living. Thousands of people marched peacefully through Paris on Saturday, following a restricted route along the southeastern edge of the city. Local officials had banned an originally negotiated central itinerary between Place de la Bastille and Place de la Nation, designating the route from Porte d'Italie to Porte de Vincennes as the only permitted path. This last-minute change, along with the prohibition of protests organized by non-union groups, angered many participants who felt their voices were being deliberately marginalized.

Protesters expressed their frustration with the logistical restrictions, viewing them as a government tactic to drain energy from the movement. Emma, a podcaster and active participant, described the route change as an attempt to discourage the demonstration. Monica, a retired public education worker, echoed this sentiment, stating that the move gave the impression that authorities wanted to make the movement invisible. Both participants declined to give their last names. The marchers, a diverse group including students, teachers, ecologists, nurses, and union representatives, maintained a peaceful demeanor while chanting slogans. Some called for President Emmanuel Macron to resign, while others shouted that they were preparing for revolution due to the influence of billionaires.

In preparation for the protests, significant changes were made to daily life in central Paris. Many businesses shuttered early, covering shop windows with protective panels, and some retailers hired private security firms for additional protection. At the request of the police prefecture, at least 24 metro stations were closed to control crowds and protect infrastructure. Major cultural institutions also paused operations, with the Louvre and the Musee d'Orsay closing for the day. The Art Basel Paris event, a major cultural gathering, cancelled its weekend program entirely. In other cities, such as Montpellier, Rouen, and Nice, protests were banned in downtown areas, while Marseille held its union march under strict conditions. In Lyon, police used tear gas to disperse a smaller group of about 150 demonstrators.

The broader context of the unrest traces back to mid-September, when high school students began blockading schools over dilapidated buildings, severe teacher shortages, and an unfair university admission system. On Friday, President Macron met with student representatives for the first time since the protests started. He promised to hire more teachers and conduct a deep overhaul of Parcoursup, the national university admission platform. However, student leaders stated they would continue mobilizing until the government presents concrete actions rather than just promises. More than half a million people had taken to the streets during the October 17 demonstrations, signaling the scale of public discontent.

This political turmoil occurs at a sensitive time, roughly six months before a pivotal presidential election. President Macron is barred from seeking a third consecutive term and is due to leave office in 2027. The instability may benefit Marine Le Pen, who has long campaigned on a platform of restoring law and order. Recent polls show her leading by a wide margin. This dynamic was highlighted in Orleans, where thousands of anti-fascist protesters shouted slogans outside the National Rally headquarters as the party held a congress marking the start of its campaign. Authorities expected between 20,000 and 30,000 people to join a counter-demonstration there, illustrating the growing polarization in French society.

The interior minister, Laurent Nunez, confirmed that the elite RAID unit was supporting other police operations rather than directly handling crowds, a strategic shift aimed at maintaining order without excessive force. The Yellow Vest movement has also announced its own protest for October 31, suggesting that the wave of demonstrations is not yet over. As the government balances the need to maintain order with the desire to address the root causes of the unrest, the coming weeks will likely be a critical period for political stability in France.