The French government has implemented curfews in several cities following weekend protests that resulted in property damage, while President Emmanuel Macron faces criticism from political opponents and media outlets for traveling abroad during the events. Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu stated on Tuesday that the measures contributed to a calmer night.
On Oct. 20, Lecornu announced that curfews had been effective and that local officials would be permitted to impose new ones as deemed necessary. The measures were put in place after demonstrations occurred across the country. In Paris, curfews were established in areas including Place de la République and Les Halles. Other cities, such as Lyon, Lille, and Nice, also instituted restrictions, with some specifically targeting minors.
The weekend events included large-scale demonstrations. While many were peaceful, officials reported instances of vandalism and arson. In Paris, individuals were seen damaging storefronts, and in Limoges, the town hall was set on fire. The protests have been linked to public concerns over the cost of living and the education system.
Concurrent with the events in France, President Macron began a three-day diplomatic tour of the Middle East, a decision that has drawn public comment from critics. In an Oct. 19 broadcast, political commentator Christophe Barbier said on RTL radio that there was “no longer a pilot in the plane.”
An editorial in the newspaper La Dépêche du Midi commented on Macron’s trip, questioning if “the misery of a reviled president is less painful in the Persian Gulf sun” while France “sinks deeper into crisis.”
The president’s office stated the purpose of the trip to Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, and Qatar is to address high fuel prices, secure energy supplies for France, and reinforce defense and security cooperation.
The domestic situation occurs as the French parliament debates the 2027 national budget. The government has stated a goal of reducing the national deficit to 5% of GDP from its current 5.4%. Following the weekend protests, French financial markets saw a decrease in the value of government bonds, stocks, and the euro on Monday.
