English
Tens of thousands of people took to the streets across France on Saturday in a new wave of protests, with authorities reporting a largely calm atmosphere compared to the violent riots that erupted the previous weekend. Police figures put nationwide turnout at around 110,000 demonstrators — matching last week’s numbers — as intelligence agencies had earlier warned that up to 500,000 people could mobilize.
Tensions High Ahead of Demonstrations
French authorities entered the day on high alert. Intelligence reports had flagged the presence of ultra-left agitators who were allegedly coordinating online to provoke a repeat of last week’s riots. The unrest had followed a week of curfews and, just the day before the protests, an alleged racist mass shooting on the outskirts of Paris had further inflamed public anxiety.
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In preparation, Paris authorities closed museums and many businesses shuttered for the day. Officers conducted early morning operations and seized weapons and gas masks before the marches began. The police presence across the capital was heavy and visible.
Protests Proceed With Scattered Incidents
Despite the tense buildup, the demonstrations largely reflected genuine public grievances rather than descending into the looting and violence that overshadowed the previous week’s events. “It’s all calm so far,” Paris police reported within the past hour.
However, confusion over last-minute route changes caused friction in several cities. Authorities altered the permitted march routes multiple times, partly to keep protesters well away from city centers. In some locations, police fired tear gas amid the disorder that followed the sudden changes. Overall, though, the spotlight remained on the demonstrators and their message rather than on scenes of destruction.
Organizers and Activists Respond
Among those participating in the broader movement is Fatima Khallouk, a French disability rights activist who writes for Yanous, a French disability magazine, and is also active within the French Communist Party. Her involvement highlights the wide range of voices and communities engaging with the protests.
French officials will continue monitoring the situation as the day progresses. The relatively peaceful tone of Saturday’s demonstrations marks a significant shift from the chaos of the previous weekend. Nevertheless, authorities are taking no chances, maintaining a strong security presence across the country as the marches continue.
