Emmanuel Macron, the President of France, during his visit to Marseille and in conversation with reporters, reported an escalation of public protests against his government's policies and said: "Next Saturday is still a risky day." He clearly stated that on November 5, we will witness a national mobilization with the participation of all labor unions, and this process will continue.
Efforts to Reduce Tensions
Macron further assured citizens that his government will continue to "organize and protect property, people, and urban centers" and did not consider the continuation of these protests as "inevitable." He also instructed his government officials to respond to the protesters' demands and asked Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu to meet with representatives of the high school community to address these demands.
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Reports of Unrest
Macron also criticized the performance of security forces in dealing with the protests on October 17, stating that there were not enough forces deployed at that time and the events were unforeseen. He acknowledged the lack of police readiness while referring to "far-left" groups and criminal elements that had joined the protests.
The President of France further identified social media as a factor in the unrest in the country, stating: "These networks harm our democracies and increase polarization." He also warned that these networks led young and elderly individuals to places where violence and looting occurred on October 17. Macron stated that this violence was portrayed unrealistically on social media.
Next Steps for the Government
Macron stated that significant changes must be made to respond to the protesters' demands and promised that announcements in this regard would be made following Lecornu's scheduled meeting. He emphasized that government interactions with labor unions and employer organizations will continue in order to restore normalcy.
Finally, Emmanuel Macron emphasized that his government is currently striving to maintain the republic and public order and to respond to the criticisms directed at them. He announced that officials will be "strict and decisive" in dealing with the unrest.
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