French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu has announced a major security operation for nationwide demonstrations planned for Saturday, October 24, as the government braces for renewed unrest following violent protests over the rising cost of living and deteriorating public services.

Speaking before the National Assembly on Tuesday, Lecornu described the planned deployment as the “second phase” of the government’s response to the demonstrations, pledging a “massive” security presence to prevent a repeat of the violence that swept several French cities over the weekend.

Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez also said authorities would strengthen their response by increasing security resources and improving their ability to react to disturbances.

The announcement follows widespread unrest on October 17, when demonstrations over living costs, education and public services escalated into clashes, looting and fires in Paris, Lyon, Marseille, Bordeaux and other cities.

Curfews and restrictions extended

The government has extended overnight curfews in affected areas where authorities consider them necessary to prevent further unrest.

Partial, localized curfews were introduced in several cities, including Paris, Lyon, Lille, Bordeaux and Nice, following the weekend violence. The restrictions were designed to limit further looting and property damage, with some measures specifically targeting minors in designated areas.

In the Paris metropolitan area, police authorities have also introduced restrictions on the transportation of fuel and flammable gas in individual containers through Thursday. Additional measures prohibit certain protective equipment within 100 meters of high schools and higher education institutions, while restrictions on the purchase and possession of pyrotechnic devices remain in force across the capital region.

The measures come as authorities seek to prevent further confrontations while preparing for another round of demonstrations.

Arrests rise following weekend violence

The security buildup follows demonstrations on October 17 that drew approximately 550,000 people to 110 marches nationwide, according to Interior Ministry figures. Organizers estimated the turnout at around 800,000, including approximately 110,000 demonstrators in Paris.

Initial reports recorded around 400 arrests during the demonstrations. However, the number subsequently increased sharply as police continued their operations. By October 18, authorities had reported approximately 1,800 arrests, with later reporting putting the total at nearly 2,400.

The unrest also exposed shortcomings in the authorities’ preparations. An investigation by French newspaper Le Monde reported that police intelligence services had substantially underestimated the expected turnout, while security forces struggled to contain the violence in several major cities.

The Interior Ministry subsequently reported 997 injuries among police officers and gendarmes, including seven serious injuries.

Cost-of-living anger continues to fuel protests

The demonstrations emerged from weeks of student protests over deteriorating school conditions before expanding into a broader movement against rising living costs, fuel prices and the decline of public services.

Students, trade unions, public-sector workers and other demonstrators have voiced frustration over economic pressures and what they regard as inadequate government responses to their demands.

Although the authorities have focused on restoring public order, the continuing mobilization points to deeper social and economic grievances that remain unresolved.

The government has acknowledged failures in its handling of the October 17 demonstrations, while Lecornu has promised financial support for businesses affected by looting and destruction. At least 3,000 businesses were reported to have suffered damage or looting, according to the government’s commerce minister.

With another nationwide mobilization expected on Saturday, French authorities are preparing for a substantial security operation amid continuing tensions over the cost of living, education and public services. (ILKHA)