Casablanca – French President Emmanuel Macron vowed to hold those responsible for widespread riots and looting accountable on Sunday, after a day of violent unrest that left hundreds of businesses damaged and thousands of people under arrest across France.
In a televised address, Macron condemned attacks on public buildings, businesses and security forces during Saturday’s nationwide demonstrations against rising living costs and deteriorating conditions in public schools.
“Those who looted will have to pay for the damage, and those who sought to bring down the Republic will be held accountable,” Macron declared.
The president expressed anger over the destruction in several French cities, where groups of rioters smashed storefronts, set vehicles ablaze and clashed with the police.
“Nothing justifies it, nothing explains it, nothing excuses it,” he said.
Macron blamed groups from the radical left and individuals involved in criminal activity for much of the violence, but stressed that they should not be confused with the hundreds of thousands of people who took to the streets to express legitimate demands.
“There must be a distinction between protesters with legitimate demands and those who destroyed, smashed, and looted,” he said.
He acknowledged protesters’ concerns about living costs, fuel prices and education, and called for discussions to address their demands.
Macron calls for review
Macron also ordered a review of intelligence gathering and police preparations following criticism of how authorities handled Saturday’s unrest.
He instructed the government to examine possible shortcomings and provide clear answers about the security response.
The president said prefects would work with mayors to protect public buildings, businesses and city centers, including through restrictions on certain gatherings where necessary.
Authorities reported more than 2,000 arrests nationwide and hundreds of injuries among police officers and emergency personnel.
In Limoges, a fire caused extensive damage to the city’s historic town hall, while businesses in Marseille and other major cities suffered significant losses.
Beyond the security measures, Macron called for discussions involving students, teachers, trade unions, political representatives and businesses.
“We must sit around the table and build solutions together,” he said.
Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu is expected to convene representatives of these groups in the coming days to develop proposals addressing the concerns behind the demonstrations.
