Hundreds of thousands march across France as protests over schools and policing intensify

Hundreds of thousands of demonstrators took to the streets across France on Saturday, 24 October, in a nationwide mobilisation demanding improved school funding, better living conditions and an end to what protesters describe as heavy-handed policing. Almost 1,000 people were arrested as clashes erupted between security forces and groups of demonstrators in Paris and several other cities.

Mass demonstrations challenge Macron
France’s Interior Ministry estimated that 410,000 people participated in demonstrations nationwide, including approximately 110,000 in Paris. The CGT trade union put the national turnout at nearly 800,000.

The protests represent a growing political challenge for President Emmanuel Macron as he approaches the final months of his presidency.

Authorities deployed approximately 70,000 police officers across the country, following violent unrest the previous weekend that resulted in widespread damage, looting and thousands of arrests.

Education protests develop into national movement
The demonstrations began in September when secondary school students protested against teacher shortages, overcrowded classrooms, deteriorating buildings and inadequate educational resources.

What started as a youth-led campaign has since expanded to include teachers, trade unions, parents and workers concerned about rising living costs and economic inequality.

Protesters are demanding additional teachers, improved school facilities and greater investment in public education. Many have also criticised police tactics used against teenage demonstrators.

Violence erupts despite peaceful marches
Saturday’s main demonstration in Paris initially proceeded peacefully, with families, students and trade union representatives marching through the eastern part of the capital.

However, near Porte de Vincennes, groups of masked individuals confronted police, throwing bottles, stones and fireworks.

Security forces responded with tear gas, water cannon and stun grenades. Similar confrontations occurred in Marseille, Lyon and other French cities, where officers attempted to prevent demonstrators from entering central districts.

Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez reported nearly 1,000 arrests nationwide.

Political tensions continue to deepen
The unrest has renewed debate over France’s economic policies, public services and the balance between maintaining public order and protecting the right to demonstrate.

Opposition politicians have responded differently, with left-wing figures supporting protesters’ demands while others have condemned the violence accompanying the demonstrations.

With France approaching its 2027 presidential election, the growing protest movement presents a significant challenge to the government.

Whether the administration can address the underlying educational and economic grievances remains uncertain, while organisers have indicated that further demonstrations could follow.

NewsHub Finance | Europe | 25 October 2026