No Violence or Disorder Will Be Tolerated in the Name of Protests or Demonstrations — French President Emmanuel Macron
Doha, Qatar | October 21, 2026 | The Global Journal
French President Emmanuel Macron has taken a firm stance against violence and disorder amid ongoing protests and public discontent over the rising cost of living in France. He said that attempts to create chaos under the guise of protests would not be tolerated under any circumstances. Macron also criticized remarks by several foreign leaders, accusing them of attempting to exploit France’s domestic situation for political gain.
Macron made the remarks while speaking to journalists in Doha, the capital of Qatar, where he met with Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. The French president also said he planned to meet with France’s intelligence agencies amid preparations for further protests in the country.
Macron Criticizes Foreign Leaders for Alleged Political Exploitation
Macron said there was no visible evidence so far of foreign interference behind the events in France. However, he alleged that attempts had been made to manipulate information and spread misleading narratives following the incidents.
The French president described some foreign leaders’ comments about France’s situation as unacceptable and even foolish. He accused them of using the protests to mobilize their own political supporters.
U.S. President Donald Trump had attributed the protests in France to immigration-related issues. Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had claimed that France was being overwhelmed by what he described as “the aggression of radical Islam.” Macron’s criticism appeared to allude to these remarks.
Rioting and Mass Arrests Amid Protests
Protests across France over the rising cost of living and demands for better conditions in educational institutions have heightened tensions in the country.
According to the report, more than 500,000 people took part in demonstrations across France last Saturday. Rioting and looting were reported in several areas, and at least 2,500 people were arrested during the unrest.
Macron stressed the need to take all necessary measures to restore peace, security and public order. However, the latest developments and arrest figures have not been independently verified for this article.
New Protests Planned as Security Measures Are Strengthened
Meanwhile, demonstrators associated with France’s Yellow Vest movement have reportedly submitted plans for a major protest in Paris next weekend. A curfew had remained in effect for a second consecutive night, although no major incidents were reported during that period.
Macron said he did not consider a nationwide state of emergency necessary under the current circumstances. Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu, however, pledged to strengthen security measures ahead of future demonstrations.
Under the proposed measures, large numbers of police officers would be deployed, with military assistance available if necessary.
French Government Takes a Tough Stance on Public Order
The French government faces the dual challenge of addressing public discontent over the rising cost of living while maintaining public safety and law and order during demonstrations. Macron’s remarks indicate that the government is prepared to take firm action to prevent violence and disorder.
However, maintaining a balance between the right to peaceful protest and measures to prevent violence will remain important as the situation develops. The next round of demonstrations, the government’s security response and public frustration over living costs are likely to remain key issues in France’s domestic politics and attract international attention.
