Macron orders measures to prevent repeat of unrest in France
In short
French President Emmanuel Macron said he had ordered the government to take measures to prevent a repeat of street unrest. In an address to the nation, he called on political parties and unions to condemn violence and urge calm.
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French President Emmanuel Macron said in an address to the nation that he had instructed the government to take measures to prevent a repeat of street unrest. RIA Novosti reported that he demanded lessons be drawn about intelligence gathering and anticipating such events, adding that he expected clear answers. Kommersant also reported his instructions to improve intelligence gathering. [ 1 , 3 ]
Macron called on political parties, professional associations and trade unions to condemn violence and urge calm, Kommersant reported. He said the country needed order and calm rather than escalation. He also promised that the government would work with high-school pupils, university students, teachers and unions to address young people’s problems. Those involved in the unrest would be punished, he said. [ 3 ]
The address followed demonstrations across France on October 17 against the high cost of living, rising fuel prices and problems with public services, according to Kommersant. RIA Novosti reported clashes between demonstrators and police, vandalism and damage to shops, bus stops and cars. It said police used tear gas, stun grenades and water cannon. [ 1 , 3 ]
The reports gave different participation figures. RIA Novosti reported 550,000 demonstrators nationwide, including 110,000 in Paris. Kommersant cited organisers as saying more than 800,000 people took to the streets. RIA Novosti also cited Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez as reporting more than 2,000 arrests and more than 600 injured law enforcement officers and firefighters. [ 1 , 3 ]
Why it matters
The orders follow protests against the cost of living that were accompanied by clashes and vandalism. Macron also promised work with students, teachers and unions on problems facing young people.
Key facts
- Macron said he had ordered measures to prevent further unrest. [ 1 , 3 , 5 ]
- He called for lessons on intelligence gathering and anticipating such events. [ 1 , 3 ]
- He urged political parties and unions to condemn violence and call for calm. [ 3 ]
- Kommersant reported that demonstrations took place across France on October 17. [ 3 ]
Confirmed by several sources
Still unclear
- The number of people who joined the protests. RIA Novosti reported 550,000 participants, including 110,000 in Paris; Kommersant cited organisers as saying more than 800,000 attended.