APTOPIX France Protests
A woman walks past a building with graffiti that reads "The ultra-rich against everyone" and "No justice, no peace. RIP El Hacen" after the weekend protests over the cost of living turned into rioting and looting across France, in Paris, Wednesday, Oct. 21, 2026.
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French authorities have banned protests in several cities, including Paris and Lyon, following a weekend of violent clashes and looting. President Emmanuel Macron says the measures aim to protect city centers, businesses, and public buildings. High school and university student groups plan to continue mobilizing despite the bans on protests planned for Thursday. Macron blames the violence on radical far-left groups and criminals. The Paris police prefecture says the ban is necessary due to the risk of street violence. Authorities are preparing for a major protest day on Saturday, involving the "yellow vest" movement and labor unions.
