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France counts mass arrests after cost-of-living protests turn violent
French authorities reported more than 1,800 arrests after protests over living costs and school conditions brought clashes, arson and looting. Hundreds of police and emergency personnel were injured. Damage spread across several cities, including serious damage to Limoges' historic town hall, while arrest and injury figures remained provisional.
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From 19 October 2026 — Daily Brief
19 OCT 2026 · 20/25
French authorities reported more than 1,800 arrests after nationwide demonstrations over living costs and school conditions were accompanied by arson, looting and clashes with police. Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez announced the figure on Sunday, 18 October.
The marches took place on Saturday. The interior ministry estimated nationwide participation at 550,000, while the CGT union put attendance at 800,000.
Weeks of student protests over staff shortages and deteriorating school buildings had drawn support from trade unions and Yellow Vest activists. Businesses and public buildings were attacked in several cities. Fire at Limoges’ historic town hall brought down part of its roof and historic spire. A tourist office in Lyon was set alight.
Nuñez also reported hundreds of injured police and emergency personnel, warning that the figures could change. President Emmanuel Macron promised prosecutions for vandalism and looting. Jean-Luc Mélenchon, who supported the demonstrations, urged participants to avoid looting.
Sarabangla’s correspondent in France reported renewed gatherings at Paris’s Place de la République on Sunday and the use of tear gas by police. Municipal workers were clearing damaged streets as the authorities assessed the losses to shops and public property.