France has deployed 70,000 police officers and gendarmes for a fresh day of protests on Saturday, October 24, as authorities try to prevent a repeat of last weekend’s violence.
Shopkeepers in Paris have boarded up windows and protected their premises, while some of the capital’s best-known museums have closed their doors. Demonstrations are planned in several cities, although authorities have banned gatherings in some locations because of fears of further disorder.
The security operation follows clashes and looting on October 17, when masked groups smashed shop windows, set vehicles alight and attacked public buildings. More than 500,000 people took part in demonstrations across France last weekend, according to figures reported by the Associated Press.
Les commerces se barricadent sur les Champs-Elysées et dans de nombreux quartiers de Paris à la veille des manifestations du 24 octobre.
#24octobre #Paris #France https://t.co/iOVI6j0agi
— Luc Auffret (@LucAuffret) October 23, 2026
Why are protests taking place in France?
The demonstrations began with students protesting against staff shortages, poor school conditions and a lack of funding for education. Anger has since widened, with the cost of living and economic inequality also featuring in the protests.
Students, trade union members and activists are expected to take part in Saturday’s demonstrations. However, the authorities have drawn a distinction between peaceful protesters and groups accused of looting businesses and attacking police during previous unrest.
Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez has ordered a strengthened security operation, with helicopters, armoured vehicles, water cannon and specialist police units available to respond to trouble.
France’s Interior Ministry has also instructed local officials to assess proposed protest routes and restrict gatherings where there is a risk of further damage to shops or public buildings.
Paris museums close as security is tightened
Visitors hoping to spend Saturday exploring Paris face some changes to their plans. The Louvre, Musée d’Orsay, Grand Palais and several other major cultural attractions are closed to the public. Art Basel Paris has also cancelled its weekend programme.
Paris is still open to visitors, but temporary restrictions are in force in some areas. A demonstration is scheduled to run from Porte d’Italie to Porte de Vincennes, starting at 2pm, with possible traffic disruption around the route. A night-time curfew has also been extended in two areas of central Paris, running from 11pm until 6am until October 26.
Protests banned in some French cities
Authorities have prohibited demonstrations in parts of several cities, including Lyon, Nice and Montpellier, as officials try to reduce the risk of further violence.
Police will also carry out checks at transport hubs and on major routes, looking for items that could be used in attacks and identifying people suspected of planning violent acts.
France’s government says the measures are intended to protect people, businesses and public buildings. However, restrictions on demonstrations have drawn criticism from trade unions, which argue that peaceful protest is a fundamental right.
British holidaymakers and expats in France should check local restrictions, public transport updates and attraction opening times before travelling. Although flights were reported to be operating normally, the situation on the streets could change during the day.
If you’re travelling to France this week, for the latest official security announcements, visitors can consult the French Interior Ministry site.