Bourg-en-Bresse protest banned, organizers push for Saturday rally

Organizers have called for a new protest in Bourg-en-Bresse on Saturday, October 24, 2026, despite a prefectural ban on demonstrations in the city center. The gathering is scheduled for 2:30 p.m. in front of the prefecture. The mobilization follows an October 17 protest against the high cost of living that drew around 900 people peacefully, though minor clashes occurred near the train station. Mayor Jean-François Debat requested the ban to protect shops and commercial activity in the center. Authorities plan to deploy a police presence to enforce the ban and prevent potential vandalism, as they remain concerned about possible troublemakers joining the demonstration. The city is coordinating with the prefecture and law enforcement for the day.