French authorities have imposed partial curfews in multiple cities after violent protests turned violent across the country. Over 2,400 arrests have been made as riots and looting spread from Paris to other French cities. The protests, which began in September, have escalated into one of the most violent days of unrest in recent years.
Protests started at a high school in Paris and spread to other parts of the country, with initial focus on teacher shortages and building conditions. French President Emmanuel Macron called for calm as the protests grew, but violence erupted, with police admitting they lost control in some areas. The interior minister acknowledged inadequate police numbers and a lack of anticipation in preparations.
The government has announced curfews in several cities, including Paris, Lille, Nice, and Lyon, with overnight curfews in effect for parts of the capital. Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu emphasized the need for partial curfews rather than full city-wide bans, while Macron demanded a security review and new operational methods to restore public order.
The protests, which initially focused on cost of living issues, have been linked to broader European movements. French authorities are under pressure to address the unrest, with the interior minister offering his resignation but being refused by Macron, who instead demands transparency over planning and intelligence failures.