Insurers and state clash over riot costs after October 17 violence

Following urban violence on October 17, insurers and the state are clashing over responsibility for damages, with costs for each riot episode rising. Insurers are increasingly seeking to hold the state liable for the destruction. The government announced support measures on Monday, including full state-funded partial unemployment and a support fund for affected businesses. France Assureurs extended the claim declaration period to thirty days and promised faster advance payments, while the final bill remains uncertain. Experts estimate costs could reach 1.2 billion euros, exceeding the 790 million from summer 2023 riots. Compensation is uncertain as riot guarantees are optional, and insurers are invoking a security code requiring state reimbursement, though this is difficult for damage far from protest routes.