France experiences fifth consecutive weekend of protests

On Saturday, November 14, 2026, France held its fifth consecutive weekend of nationwide demonstrations protesting the high cost of living and education policies. Interior Minister Laurent Nunez had deployed approximately 70,000 police officers across the country to maintain order and prevent vandalism. Participation figures differed significantly: the Interior Ministry reported 106,000 demonstrators nationwide, including 24,000 in Paris, while unions claimed a total of 200,000 participants, with 100,000 in the capital.

While most protests remained peaceful, clashes erupted in Paris at the Place de la Nation. Youths threw Molotov cocktails at police, who responded with tear gas and stun grenades. By 6:00 p.m. local time, authorities confirmed 121 arrests nationwide, with 22 additional arrests specifically in Paris. These protests, involving students and the Yellow Vests movement, have been ongoing for nearly two months. Despite the tension, the demonstrations concluded by late evening, with participants signaling their intent to organize further actions in the coming week as negotiations with the government remain at a deadlock.