French protests, USA News (France): A new day of demonstrations against the high cost of living and for the improvement of high school study conditions is scheduled this Saturday, October 31, in France. The mobilization occurs amid heightened tensions following violence during previous demonstrations on October 17 and, to a lesser extent, October 24.
Last week, 410,000 people demonstrated across France, including 110,000 in Paris, according to Beauvau figures, without major incidents following the earlier violence and looting. Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez stated on Friday that he anticipates a very high risk of public disorder for today’s events.
Massive Security Deployment and Halloween Coincidence
A total of 70,000 police officers and gendarmes are mobilized throughout the country as this new day of action coincides with the Halloween holiday. Minister Nuñez announced on the social network X that security forces are deployed across the territory to protect demonstrators, business owners, and local residents.
Authorities have conducted checks since the previous evening on roadways, around train stations, and in city centers, such as in Grigny (91), to detect and seize objects that could be used for violence or vandalism. In Mulhouse (68), authorities seized 175 pyrotechnic devices. Regarding Halloween disguises, the minister recalled that a 2019 law makes concealing one’s face in a protest where public disorder occurs or is anticipated an offense.
Paris Route Dispute and Union Reaction
Overnight, the Council of State overturned an administrative court decision that had authorized a Paris route between Bastille and Nation, siding instead with the police prefecture’s imposed route between Porte de Bagnolet and Porte de Charenton. The Interior Ministry stated that the alternative itinerary preserves freedom of demonstration and security while limiting exactions.
Adèle Tellez, co-secretary of CGT Paris, criticized the Council of State’s decision during a BFMTV appearance, stating it validates a strategy of disorganization by the Interior Ministry and police prefecture. She expressed concern that many demonstrators might arrive at Bastille without knowing about the change, potentially disrupting the afternoon events.
