70,000 officers deployed as French protests enter second phase

French authorities mobilized a massive security force for the second wave of nationwide demonstrations.

More than 70,000 police officers and gendarmes were deployed across the country on Saturday. This number represents a 20 percent increase over the previous weekend, according to Interior Minister Laurent Nunez. The government aimed to prevent a repeat of the disorder seen on October 17.

Local officials in Paris restricted the main march to a specific route. The demonstration started at Porte d'Italie and ended at Porte de Vincennes. Authorities banned the previously negotiated central path between Place de la Bastille and Place de la Nation. Only union-organized groups were permitted to march, excluding other protest collectives.

Protesters expressed frustration over the logistical changes. Emma, a podcaster and participant, described the route change as a tactic to drain the movement's energy. Monica, a retired educator, said the move made the movement appear invisible to the public. Neither woman provided a last name.

The crowds included students, teachers, nurses, ecologists, and union representatives. Participants chanted slogans such as "Too many billionaires; We are preparing the revolution." Some groups called for President Emmanuel Macron to resign. Others chanted "We are all anti-fascists."

Businesses in central Paris prepared for potential disruptions. Many shops covered their windows with protective panels or hired private security. At least 24 metro stations closed at the request of the police prefecture. Major cultural institutions, including the Louvre and the Musee d'Orsay, closed for the day. Art Basel Paris also cancelled its weekend events.

Police reported at least 135 arrests nationwide by early Saturday afternoon. Officers seized various weapons during the operations. The situation remained largely calm despite the high number of arrests. Protests were banned in the downtown areas of Montpellier, Rouen, and Nice. In Lyon, police used tear gas to disperse approximately 150 demonstrators.

The unrest began in mid-September when high school students blockaded their schools. Their grievances included dilapidated buildings, teacher shortages, and an unfair university admission system. On Friday, President Macron met with student representatives for the first time since the protests started. He promised more teachers and a major overhaul of the Parcoursup system.

Students vowed to continue mobilizing until the government presents concrete actions. More than half a million people marched on October 17. That day saw widespread looting and vandalism, with thousands of businesses damaged. Over 2,000 people were taken into custody according to official figures.

The political tensions coincide with the approach of the presidential election. Macron is barred from seeking a third term and will leave office in 2027. Marine Le Pen leads recent polls by a wide margin. In Orléans, thousands shouted anti-fascist slogans while her National Rally held a party congress. Authorities expected 20,000 to 30,000 people to join a counter-demonstration.