France deploys 70,000 police to contain Halloween protests

France is deploying 70,000 police officers to manage a new wave of nationwide protests on Saturday. These demonstrations occur on Halloween, just two weeks after riots and looting surprised security forces and left damage to shops and public buildings across the country.

Interior Minister Laurent Nunez told a news conference earlier this week that the government is preparing for an extremely firm response to any trouble. He characterized the day as carrying a very high risk of unrest. To prevent a repeat of the recent chaos, France's top administrative court confirmed on Saturday that a march between the Paris squares of Republique and Bastille will be banned. The court rejected a challenge from unions, requiring demonstrations to take place on boulevards on the eastern fringe of the city, away from central shopping areas.

Authorities are also monitoring the possibility that rioters will use Halloween masks to hide their identities. Nunez noted that existing laws allow police to ban face coverings when public order is at risk. The interior ministry reported that approximately 150 gatherings are planned across France. The US Embassy advised travelers to avoid areas where large groups are expected to assemble.

The protests gained momentum in late September when Macron's minority government began budget talks for 2027. With public debt nearing 120 percent of economic output and borrowing costs rising, the government faces pressure to cut spending. Students upset over poor school conditions and crowded classes have joined trade unions and a revived Yellow Vest movement that demands action on the cost of living. The French government's promises to reform education and lower fuel costs have not calmed the discontent.

The unrest has spread beyond France, inspiring youth-led demonstrations in more than 30 German cities on Saturday. Aaron Berthier de Grandry, a 15-year-old student in Nogent-sur-Marne, said he plans to join his third consecutive weekend of protests. He stated, "Well, if we, as the future of France, lack resources, that means France will end up collapsing."

The economic impact of the trouble is substantial. Data released on Friday showed the French economy shrinking in the third quarter. The Chamber of Commerce estimates retail losses exceed €1 billion, or $1.1 billion, with other estimates placing the total at double that amount when including uninsured damage and lost revenue. Along Paris' main shopping boulevards, early Christmas lights now shine around boarded-up windows and security grilles. Luxury brands including Hermes, Louis Vuitton, and Burberry had stores targeted in previous unrest.

The political situation remains tense as far-right leader Marine Le Pen leads opinion polls ahead of April's presidential election. Potential centrist successors to Macron remain divided. The government is moving forward with a law making rioters liable to pay up to €10,000 for damage caused by themselves or their groups. Rights groups and some lawyers argue the measure risks undermining the right to peaceful protest.