French President Emmanuel Macron has pledged that those responsible for violence, looting and attacks on public property during nationwide protests will face justice after authorities arrested about 1,800 people across the country.
In a televised address on Sunday, Macron condemned the unrest that has accompanied demonstrations over rising living costs and concerns about public services, including school conditions.
“Those who looted will have to pay back for the damage, and those who sought to bring down the Republic will be held accountable,” the French leader said.
Macron blamed the violence on what he described as radical far-left groups and criminal elements, while acknowledging public frustration over economic difficulties.
The remarks followed an emergency meeting with senior government officials after attacks on public buildings, including town halls, were reported in several French cities.
One of the most severe incidents occurred in Limoges, where a fire engulfed the historic town hall, causing the building’s roof to collapse.
Protests continued in Paris on Sunday under heavy police deployment. Security forces fired tear gas after clashes erupted and some demonstrators allegedly attempted to set fire to bicycles and rubbish bins.
French Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez defended the right to peaceful protest while condemning acts of violence and vandalism.
“The right to protest is a fundamental right. Deliberately and collectively sowing disorder through violence is not,” he said.
Authorities estimated participation in the demonstrations at around 550,000 people nationwide, while organisers put the figure closer to 800,000.
The protests were organised by labour unions, student groups and activists seeking to revive the “Yellow Vest” movement that emerged in 2018.
Paris police also reported that one person died of a suspected heart attack during the unrest, while prosecutors opened an investigation into the circumstances.
