French minister says Halloween protests could turn violent
EWG•French authorities expect more unrest during demonstrations planned for October 31, Interior Minister Laurent Nunez said, after deploying 70,000 police for Saturday’s protests. Police arrested 1,435 people, while retailers reported sales had fallen by about 80%.
1. More protests expected
French authorities are bracing for further street unrest next weekend, despite a large security operation that helped contain nationwide demonstrations on Saturday. Asked whether he expected disturbances during protests planned for October 31, Interior Minister Laurent Nunez said, “Clearly, yes,” adding that Halloween evening was traditionally lively.
2. Arrests and clashes
Authorities deployed 70,000 police for Saturday’s demonstrations, called by unions to protest the cost of living and public services. Nunez said 1,435 people were arrested and that organised far-right groups confronted far-left activists in several cities. Sporadic violence was reported, especially in Paris, Marseille and Lyon.
3. Retailers report losses
Business leaders said unrest continued to weigh on commerce despite a calmer weekend. Alain Di Crescenzo, head of the CCI France network of chambers of commerce and industry, said many retailers had stayed closed as a precaution after the violence of October 17 and sales had fallen by about 80%.
