Shortly before Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu’s announcement regarding the minimum wage, France was experiencing several waves of protests related to the cost of living and the deterioration of public services and education. Authorities massively mobilized law enforcement forces and warned that the risks included a resurgence of violence and looting following the demonstrations on October 17.
During the preceding weekends, protests had degenerated in Paris and other cities: police used tear gas and water cannons against a group of masked young people, while arson and looting were reported in Marseille. At the same time, the movement was also sustained by students, who continued to organize demonstrations, although the government had announced some concessions.
Authorities also reported arrests and disruptions, including nighttime traffic restrictions in certain areas of Paris and temporary bans on some items used at protests, while trade unions announced that they were preparing new actions.
