French President Emmanuel Macron announced on October 22 that protests organised by groups he considers lacking legitimacy would be banned where possible, ahead of rallies planned for October 24. Reuters reported that union demonstrations could proceed with altered routes to protect businesses, following a security meeting in Paris.
The decision follows violence and looting on October 17 alongside nationwide protests. Reuters linked the wider discontent to rising energy costs, strained household budgets and concerns about public services. Macron blamed organised ultra-left groups for some of the unrest; that accusation remains the president's account.
According to parliamentary broadcaster LCP, prefects will examine union applications under existing law and propose routes protecting shops and public buildings. TF1 reported that police approved a Paris march from Bastille to Nation initiated notably by the CGT. The policy therefore does not prohibit every demonstration.
Government spokesperson Maud Bregeon said restrictions would be decided individually and could be challenged before administrative courts, LCP reported. Lawmakers from La France insoumise condemned the approach as an attack on freedoms. Finance committee chairman Eric Coquerel warned it could create more disorder.
Paris city hall said it was removing objects that could be used to cause damage and urged residents and businesses to bring bins, bicycles and outdoor furniture inside from Saturday noon. Its announcement provides for municipal police and mediation teams, with more than 1,000 cleaning staff mobilised over the weekend.
The city said its crisis unit would open at noon on October 24 to coordinate services with the police prefecture. Reuters reported that Macron planned a defence council meeting on Friday. The immediate next steps concern security preparations and decisions on planned gatherings, amid the dispute over protest rights.
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