Hundreds of thousands of people have taken to the streets across France amid growing public frustration over school conditions, the rising cost of living, inequality and government restrictions on demonstrations.
According to reporting by FRANCE 24, Reuters and other international news organisations, the demonstrations on 24 October 2026 brought together students, teachers, trade unions, families and activists. Protesters called for improvements to schools, including more teachers and better-maintained buildings, while others voiced concerns about policing and the right to demonstrate.
French authorities estimated nationwide participation at approximately 410,000 people, while trade unions claimed the number was considerably higher. Although many marches began peacefully, clashes occurred in Paris and several other cities, prompting police to use tear gas and water cannon. Authorities had deployed tens of thousands of police officers and gendarmes in anticipation of further unrest.
🎙️ In this episode: We cover the nationwide demonstrations, the issues driving public frustration, the government’s security response and what the protests reveal about France’s wider social and political tensions.
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