Thousands protest across France against cost of living and government policies

Thousands of demonstrators took to the streets across France on Saturday, November 7, 2026, for the fourth consecutive weekend to protest against the rising cost of living and current government policies. The marches, primarily organized by student groups and some labor unions, saw participants walk from Place de la Republique to Place de la Nation in Paris. While the protests remained largely peaceful, clashes occurred at the end of the march, leading police to use tear gas and stun grenades to disperse crowds, particularly as small fires were reported near Voltaire Avenue.

Official figures from the Interior Ministry stated that 46,000 people protested in Paris and 146,000 nationwide, while student unions claimed higher turnouts of 75,000 in the capital and 250,000 across the country. The government deployed 70,000 police officers to maintain order, resulting in 18 arrests. This mobilization follows a significant general strike held last Thursday.

Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu is scheduled to hold critical consultations on Monday, November 9, with labor unions, employers, and student organizations at Matignon. These meetings are expected to determine the future trajectory of the protest movement and whether the current national unrest will persist or evolve.