Macron Says Social Media Is Damaging French Democracy

During a visit to Marseille on October 26, Emmanuel Macron said social media was “damaging our democracy,” following demonstrations on October 17 and 24. He ruled out declaring a state of emergency, saying order had been maintained on October 24 while warning of risks around the planned October 31 gathering. Macron acknowledged that there had not been enough police officers on October 17, despite assurances to Marseille Mayor Benoît Payan that reinforcements would be sent. In 2023, after Nahel’s death and the ensuing riots, Macron had also raised the possibility of restricting access to platforms during an emergency, but the government quickly said that option was not under consideration.