France deploys 70,000 police for Halloween protests amid high unrest risk
France will deploy about 70,000 police officers on 31 Oct to prevent unrest during nationwide Halloween‑linked protests. Interior Minister Laurent Nunez says the day carries a very high risk of public disorder and warned of possible violence from early evening to late night. The demonstrations follow the 17 Oct riots, which were among the worst in years and caused extensive damage to shops and public buildings. Authorities have banned rallies in city centres, closed over 40 metro stations and restricted face‑covering masks, while a court overturned a ban on a march between Bastille and Nation. The US Embassy has advised travelers to avoid areas where large gatherings are planned.
Key facts
- Shops in Paris boarded up windows on 30 Oct fearing fresh street violence.
- Government announced changes to university admissions to address student demands.
- Yellow Vest movement and student unions called for the new day of protests.
- Youth‑led protests are planned in more than 30 German cities on 31 Oct.
- Public debt is nearing 120 % of GDP, increasing pressure on government spending.
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Why it matters
The large police deployment underscores France's struggle to contain widespread unrest over economic grievances.
What changed
First published from Hindustan Times, Al Jazeera English, South China Morning Post, The Guardian and Bangkok Post