France sees lowest turnout in weeks as 106,000 protest police bill
The interior ministry reports that about 106,000 people demonstrated across France on 14 Nov, the smallest crowd since the protests began, with 24,000 in Paris. Organisers claim up to 200,000 participants, including nearly 100,000 in the capital. Demonstrations have continued for five consecutive Saturdays, focusing on a parliamentary bill that would extend legal protection for police using force. The movement, which started in September over school conditions, also highlights concerns about living costs and alleged police brutality. Around 70,000 police officers were deployed, and no violence was recorded on Saturday.
Key facts
- Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez says about 70,000 police officers were on duty during the protests.
- The far‑right party of Marine Le Pen backs the new police bill.
- Student unions estimate almost 100,000 protesters gathered in Paris.
- Protesters cite high living costs, school system shortcomings and police brutality as grievances.
- The protests are the fifth consecutive Saturday of demonstrations.
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Why it matters
The protest reflects public resistance to expanding police immunity amid broader social discontent.
What changed
First published from CNA, Asharq Al-Awsat, The Hindu, The Straits Times and SVT Nyheter