Over 500 arrested in Paris as France protests hit third weekend

More than 500 people were detained on Saturday as France entered its third consecutive weekend of demonstrations.

The French government estimated that 320,000 participants took to the streets across the country. Approximately 70,000 of those protesters gathered in Paris. These numbers mark a decline from the previous two weekends. Officials counted over 500,000 attendees on October 17. That figure dropped to about 410,000 on October 24.

Protests began last month with secondary school students. They complained about deteriorating school buildings, a shortage of teachers, and unequal access to universities. Unions and other groups later joined the movement. They added demands regarding the rising cost of living, public services, and the policies of President Emmanuel Macron’s government.

Security forces deployed roughly 70,000 police officers and gendarmes nationwide. In Paris, authorities redirected marches away from the city center. This move aimed to reduce the risk of clashes near government buildings and tourist areas. Officials also imposed access restrictions in specific parts of the capital during the evening.

Clashes occurred near Porte de Charenton at the end of a march in Paris. Some protesters threw glass bottles and fireworks at officers. Police responded with tear gas and stun grenades. The Associated Press reported that some groups engaged in confrontations with security forces. Other participants abandoned the area as the intervention unfolded, while others dispersed into nearby zones.

Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez had warned of a high risk of public order disturbances during the Halloween weekend mobilizations. While many marches proceeded peacefully, previous days saw vandalism, looting, and damage to commercial establishments. The current demonstrations continue with protesters maintaining their demands for educational reform and better public services.