Macron condemns French riots, sympathizes with protestors
Caroline MolloyFrench President Emmanuel Macron vowed Oct. 18 to punish those responsible for widespread violence during nationwide protests, suggesting that the French people must “pay heed” to what protestors “are saying, and we must not minimize the hardships they are facing.”
In a televised address broadcast by France 24, Macron condemned attacks on businesses, police, and public buildings, including the burning of the historic city hall in Limoges and an attack on the prefect’s residence in Bordeaux.
“Nothing can justify their actions,” Macron declared, according to France 24’s English interpretation. “Nothing can explain their actions and nothing will excuse their actions.”
Macron blamed far-left extremists and criminal opportunists for the destruction, while insisting that peaceful demonstrators must not be confused with rioters.
Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez reported that approximately 550,000 people participated in 110 demonstrations across France on Oct. 17, while organizers estimated attendance at 800,000.
Protests initially began in mid-to-late September in the suburbs of France, reportedly in response to a shortage of high school teachers and poor classroom and building conditions, but demonstrations quickly devolved into rioting and what authorities called “urban violence,” spreading to other cities across France.
