Macron Calls for Firm Action Against Rioters as French Unions Threaten Further Protests

World 10:37 AM - 2026-10-22

protests in France.

French President Emmanuel Macron has called for a firm response against those responsible for violence during protests over the rising cost of living, as government officials and trade union leaders met to discuss protesters’ demands and security arrangements for demonstrations.

Speaking during a visit to Qatar as part of his Gulf tour, Macron said “the state’s hand must not tremble” when punishing rioters, adding that security measures introduced by the authorities had helped restore calm.

He said he would hold a meeting on Thursday with Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu, intelligence officials and relevant ministers to assess the recent unrest, but stressed that the situation did not yet justify declaring a state of emergency.

Macron’s comments follow incidents of violence, looting and vandalism in several French cities last Saturday, alongside demonstrations over the rising cost of living. The unrest has intensified criticism of the government’s handling of the crisis.

Paris police have announced a ban on gatherings and demonstrations on Thursday, from 8am to 8pm, covering areas around key institutions and landmarks, including the Élysée Palace, the Prime Minister’s office, the National Assembly, the Senate, the Louvre Museum and the Champs-Élysées.

Authorities have also introduced night-time curfews in parts of Marseille and Toulouse in an effort to prevent further violence.

Responding to criticism, Macron condemned all forms of violence, whether directed against people or property. While ruling out direct foreign interference in the unrest, he criticised what he described as “foreign manipulation of information”.

Trade unions threaten to escalate protests

Meanwhile, a meeting between Lecornu and representatives of France’s five major trade unions, lasting around two and a half hours, ended without any immediate measures to address the protesters’ demands.

Sophie Binet, general secretary of the General Confederation of Labour (CGT), said the discussions had failed to produce concrete commitments on the demands of workers and secondary school students. She called for an escalation of protests, including strikes, from 5 November.

Lecornu had pledged to examine the protesters’ concerns, particularly those relating to purchasing power and rising fuel prices, alongside education issues such as the renovation of school buildings and the provision of substitute teachers.

The Prime Minister indicated that initial measures could be announced early next week, with further proposals to be considered during parliamentary discussions on the budget.

Political criticism and economic pressures

On the political front, far-right leader Marine Le Pen criticised Macron’s remarks, arguing that the scenes of violence reflected the reality of the situation in France.

Former President François Hollande described the government as “weak” and criticised Macron for remaining abroad during the crisis. Former Prime Minister Édouard Philippe also questioned the President’s decision to continue his Gulf tour amid the unrest.

The violence has also coincided with growing market concerns over France’s public finances. According to the report, the yield on 10-year French government bonds briefly rose above 5%.

In response to the vandalism, a Senate committee has approved a bill aimed at making those responsible for damage liable for compensation. The proposal has drawn opposition from left-wing parties.

Paris Public Prosecutor Laure Beccuau said that 300 of the 557 people detained in connection with the violence and looting had appeared before the courts. She added that none had cited a political motive, despite the government’s accusations that far-left groups had encouraged the unrest.