October 24, 2026 | Paris, France. Approximately 110,000 people marched through Paris on Saturday as a new wave of nationwide demonstrations brought students, teachers, workers and trade unions into the streets to demand better living conditions, increased education funding and economic reforms.
The figure was confirmed by the Paris Police Prefecture, which reported that the demonstration had reached Porte de Vincennes by approximately 5 p.m. local time.
The large turnout comes one week after violent unrest and widespread property damage affected several French cities.
Thousands Fill the Streets of Paris
Saturday’s demonstration began around 2 p.m. at Porte d’Italie, with crowds marching toward Porte de Vincennes on the eastern side of the French capital.
The route had been changed by police authorities shortly before the demonstration, prompting objections from trade unions and organizers.
The original route was expected to pass through central Paris, from Place de la Bastille to Place de la Nation.
However, authorities redirected the march to the city’s outer boulevards, citing security concerns following last weekend’s violence.
A court rejected the organizers’ appeal against the decision.
Despite the controversy, tens of thousands joined the march.
Students and Workers Demand Change
The demonstrations have brought together high school students, university students, teachers, workers and trade union organizations.
Their demands include increased education funding, more teachers, improved school facilities, higher wages and better protection against rising living costs.
Housing affordability and employment opportunities have also become major concerns.
The movement initially gained momentum over problems in the education system but has developed into broader protests against economic inequality and government policies.
Heavy Police Presence Across France
French authorities deployed approximately 70,000 police officers and security personnel nationwide to prevent a repeat of the violent unrest recorded during demonstrations on October 17.
Security restrictions affected public transportation, commercial districts and several major cultural attractions.
According to French authorities, police conducted thousands of checks and made dozens of arrests in Paris.
While much of Saturday’s demonstration remained peaceful, confrontations occurred near Porte de Vincennes, where police used tear gas and water cannons after some protesters threw projectiles.
More Than 410,000 Demonstrators Nationwide
The protests extended beyond Paris, with demonstrations taking place in several major French cities, including Lyon, Marseille and Nantes.
According to the French Interior Ministry, approximately 410,000 people participated in demonstrations across the country.
In Orléans, thousands also gathered to protest against the far-right National Rally party during its national congress.
The demonstrations reflect broader tensions over public services, economic conditions and the political direction of France.
Growing Pressure on Macron’s Government
The continuing protests are placing additional pressure on President Emmanuel Macron’s government as France approaches its 2027 presidential election.
Trade unions and student organizations argue that more government investment is needed to improve public education, protect purchasing power and address growing economic insecurity.
Authorities, meanwhile, maintain that public demonstrations must take place without violence or threats to public safety.
Organizers have already called for another round of demonstrations on October 31.
Saturday’s turnout shows that public dissatisfaction remains significant, with hundreds of thousands of people across France demanding changes to education, wages and living conditions.
By NJ RADAR Team