France deployed approximately 70,000 security personnel on Saturday, October 31, 2026, preparing for a third consecutive weekend of widespread anti-government demonstrations coinciding with Halloween celebrations.
The heightened security presence comes as French student unions announced plans to intensify their agitation by blockading high schools and universities across the country next week.
Student Unions Announce Blockades Ahead of Mass Strike
What initially began as focused student protests over deteriorating educational infrastructure and learning conditions has broadened into nationwide opposition against economic inequality and the rising cost of living.
Addressing reporters during an authorised demonstration march on Saturday in eastern Paris, Sabrine Kharbach, spokesperson for the Union Étudiante, detailed the upcoming escalation schedule:
”Starting this Tuesday, we will blockade our universities and high schools, and we will do so again on Thursday before joining the demonstration on November 5 called by workers and trade unions.”
Security Lockdown, Curfews, and Political Tension
Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez warned of a “very high risk of public disorder,” noting that intelligence services had identified social media calls urging protesters to assemble for a “night of darkness” and launch a “revolution” under the cover of Halloween.
- Curfew Restrictions: Night curfews have been imposed in Paris’s République and Châtelet-Les Halles districts from 11:00 PM to 6:00 AM local time on Saturday and Sunday. Mask bans covering identity concealment during rallies are also being strictly enforced.
- Political Fallout: With presidential elections under six months away and far-right leader Marine Le Pen leading opinion polls, President Emmanuel Macron expressed deep concern over the ongoing unrest, calling it “not normal” for the nation to face such volatility so close to a general election.
- Opposition Support: Hard-left leader Jean-Luc Mélenchon of La France Insoumise joined the Davout Boulevard march in Paris, accusing Macron’s administration of taking an “increasingly authoritarian” turn and urging citizens to maintain “firm, calm, and disciplined determination.”
