France sees mass protests with 410,000 participants and clashes with police

Mass street protests and estimates of participant numbers

On the evening of 24 October 2026, mass protest actions continued in France, directed against high prices and government policy. According to official data from the country's Ministry of the Interior, 410,000 people took to the streets. Meanwhile, representatives of trade union organisations cite a significantly higher figure — approximately 800,000 participants.

To maintain public order, the authorities mobilised 70,000 police officers and gendarmes. This is 10,000 more than during similar events a week earlier.

Clashes in Paris and Nantes

In Paris, clashes began at the end of a march involving thousands of people. Police recorded an attack by more than 500 rioters on security forces in the area of the Porte de Vincennes. To disperse the crowd, law enforcement officers used tear gas and water cannons.

A similar dynamic was observed in Nantes. Protesters broke into the city centre, where demonstrations had been banned. Here, police also used tear gas, water cannons, and armoured vehicles.

Events in other cities

In Rennes, a conflict arose after demonstrators moved onto the Place de la République. Law enforcement officers used tear gas. In Marseille, the situation took on an aggressive character: rioters blocked streets with metal sheets, set fire to waste bins, and threw stones and bottles at police officers.

Clashes with security forces were also noted in Lyon, Grenoble, Bordeaux, and other French cities.

Injuries in Toulouse

A serious injury to a protest participant was recorded in Toulouse. A 20-year-old man had several fingers on his right hand severed as a result of an explosion. This was stated by a medic who provided him with first aid.

Reuters and Le Monde agencies are reporting on the course of events.