French October 24 Protests: Core Demands on Purchasing Power and Public Services Overshadowed by Violence

Thousands of protesters marched across France on Saturday, October 24, 2026, despite some initial bans, with the core demands of purchasing power and public services overshadowed by heavy security and outbreaks of violence in Lyon and Nantes. The mobilization, involving unions, students, and Yellow Vests, calls for price freezes on fuel and energy, rent controls, tax justice, and increased funding for public services, including education and healthcare. Student groups also demand the abolition of the Parcoursup university admissions platform and the 2018 Blanquer high school reform. Authorities deployed 70,000 officers nationwide, and several courts lifted protest bans in cities like Marseille. The government has responded with a new platform for student grievances and 3,000 replacement teachers, while Yellow Vests have already called for another protest on October 31.