Businesses, museums and cultural institutions across parts of France are preparing to close this weekend as authorities brace for renewed demonstrations following days of violent unrest over rising living costs and deteriorating public services.
The planned closures come as President Emmanuel Macron’s government introduces restrictions on public demonstrations and prepares a major security operation ahead of protests scheduled for Saturday, October 24, 2026.
France’s main student union, UNEF, has vowed to proceed with planned demonstrations, while the Yellow Vest movement has submitted plans for a march through central Paris.
The protests follow nationwide unrest on October 17, when demonstrations escalated into violent clashes, looting and property destruction in several French cities.
Authorities have reported approximately 2,700 arrests since the unrest began.
Why Are French Citizens Protesting?
The demonstrations began in September among secondary school students protesting teacher shortages, deteriorating school facilities and inadequate education funding.
The movement subsequently expanded to include workers, trade unions and other groups demanding improved wages, affordable living conditions and better public services.
Rising energy costs and pressure on household incomes have intensified public dissatisfaction with the government’s economic policies.
Protesters are also opposing proposed budget cuts, arguing that reduced public spending could worsen conditions for struggling households.
However, the French government maintains that spending controls are necessary to address mounting public debt and rising borrowing costs.
Businesses and Museums Announce Closures
Several businesses and cultural institutions have announced precautionary closures ahead of Saturday’s demonstrations.
The Marseille Chamber of Commerce has advised businesses to shut temporarily because of concerns about possible violence.
In Paris, organisers of Art Basel Paris announced that the international art fair would close for the weekend.
The Louvre Museum and Fondation Louis Vuitton are also expected to remain closed on Saturday.
The closures reflect growing concerns among business owners and event organisers about potential damage, disruption and risks to public safety.
Macron Restricts Demonstrations
President Macron has announced restrictions targeting demonstrations that authorities consider illegitimate following the previous weekend’s violence.
The government has indicated that authorised protests organised by recognised groups, including trade unions, may proceed under controlled conditions or along alternative routes.
However, authorities have banned demonstrations planned for Saturday in Marseille and Lyon.
The restrictions have attracted criticism from labour organisations and opposition groups, which argue that limiting demonstrations could increase tensions rather than address the underlying grievances.
Marylise Léon, leader of the CFDT trade union, has urged the government to respond to public concerns through meaningful policy measures.
She argued that restrictions alone would not resolve widespread dissatisfaction over living standards.
Security Forces Prepare for Weekend Unrest
French authorities are preparing an extensive security operation to prevent a repeat of the violence witnessed during the previous weekend.
Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu has announced plans to reinforce police operations with military personnel.
The government has also introduced targeted curfews in parts of Paris and other cities following the unrest.
In Orléans, authorities are preparing for possible tensions surrounding a meeting of the far-right National Rally party, where counter-demonstrations are expected.
The Interior Ministry is expected to announce further security arrangements ahead of Saturday’s planned protests.
How Are the Protests Affecting France’s Economy?
The unrest comes at a difficult time for France’s economy, with businesses already facing rising energy costs and uncertainty over government finances.
The suspension of cultural events, temporary business closures and disruptions to commercial activities could place additional pressure on local businesses.
Investor concerns have also increased, with the difference between French and German government borrowing costs reaching its highest level in approximately 15 years.
The development reflects growing uncertainty about France’s ability to manage public finances while responding to demands for increased social spending.
As further demonstrations approach, attention remains focused on whether the government can maintain public order while addressing the economic and social grievances driving the protests.
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