Protesters block Louvre Museum access in Paris

Protesters blocked access to the Louvre Museum in Paris on Monday morning, October 19, in support of high school student demonstrations. The action, led by Louvre School students, aimed to denounce "police repression" and highlight inequality. The museum's administration confirmed the blockade to AFP, noting the protest has no direct link to the institution itself. The broader movement began last month in poor northern suburbs over teacher shortages and poor facilities, expanding into a national protest against inequality and inadequate public spending. The demonstrations occur amid deep political uncertainty, with President Emmanuel Macron leaving office next year. Polls suggest the April presidential election may be a contest between far-right leader Marine Le Pen and far-left candidate Jean-Luc Mélenchon.