Macron Orders Crisis Response After Unrest Across France

Conceptual illustration of microphones on an empty lectern with French tricolour fabric

Updated 18 October 2026, 3:21 p.m. EDT

French President Emmanuel Macron announced a government crisis response on Sunday evening, 18 October, after rioting and looting during the previous day’s nationwide protests over living costs and conditions in schools.

In his 8 p.m. Paris address, Macron said the prime minister would chair a crisis meeting on Monday to organise rapid assistance for affected businesses. The official Élysée transcript also says prefects will work with mayors to protect public buildings and shops, including by prohibiting some gatherings when necessary.

Macron distinguished people raising legitimate concerns from those involved in destruction. He called for calm and said political parties and professional and union organisations would be brought together in the coming days. The government will also work with students, teachers and other representatives on proposals this week.

Associated Press reporting carried by CTV News said at least 1,800 people had been arrested nationwide. Authorities estimated that about 550,000 people joined Saturday’s demonstrations; organisers put participation at roughly 800,000.

The announced crisis meeting is the next confirmed step. The speech did not specify the value of assistance or identify which future gatherings might be restricted.

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