France: Government Seeks “Concrete Answers” Amid Protest Pressure

On October 24, 410,000 people demonstrated across France, including 110,000 in Paris, according to the Interior Ministry; the CGT put attendance at 800,000. Protesters are opposing the high cost of living, deteriorating public services and restrictions on the right to demonstrate. Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu is meeting student representatives on October 26 to offer “concrete answers,” as further protests are planned for October 31 and November 5. Emmanuel Macron praised the work of law enforcement on X after announcing restrictions on the right to demonstrate.