France protests: Some cities given power to implement partial curfews
CNA · Published on October 19, 2026
Loved this video? Share it!
Send it to someone who'll love it, or post it on your networks.
Description
French authorities are stepping up measures to contain unrest, following a weekend of violent protests over rising living costs and deteriorating public services. Local mayors have been given powers to impose partial curfews. Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu has vowed to restore public order, saying a state of emergency remains an option. Meanwhile, President Emmanuel Macron has criticised security and intelligence failures that allowed the violence to escalate. He has rejected Interior Minister Laurent Nunez's resignation, instead ordering him to introduce new policing tactics and ensure greater accountability. More than half a million people joined Saturday's demonstrations, which descended into rioting and looting. Ross Cullen reports from Paris.