France's 'Act II' protest moved to Paris outskirts amid security concerns

France's "Act II" protest was relocated at the last minute by the Paris prefect to the city's periphery for security reasons, drawing skepticism from participants who accuse the government of trying to make them invisible. Over 100,000 demonstrators marched from Porte d'Italie to Porte de Vincennes on Saturday, exceeding expectations despite rain and the venue change. Union members and students criticized the relocation, noting closed metro stations near luxury boutiques while they were pushed to the outskirts, with some fearing a slide toward authoritarianism. Protesters demanded action on high living costs and youth support, with many expressing concern about the 2027 presidential election potentially favoring far-right candidate Marine Le Pen. The march remained peaceful until the end, when police deployed water cannons and tear gas. The movement follows "Act I" on October 17, which was marred by looters, and comes amid criticism of President Emmanuel Macron's decade in power, with demonstrators chanting antifascist slogans and demanding their voices be heard.