Macron on French Protests: "Anger and Shame Over Looting and Violence... Cannot Be Forgiven"

French President Emmanuel Macron Addresses the Nation

French President Emmanuel Macron said he felt "anger and shame" over the looting and acts of violence that occurred during nationwide protests.

According to AFP, BBC and other media outlets on October 18 (local time), President Macron delivered an address to the nation at the Elysee Palace that day, saying, "We all feel anger and shame," and warning protest participants not to escalate the situation further.

French President Emmanuel Macron delivers an address to the nation at the Elysee Palace on the 18th (local time). Paris, France = AFP-Yonhap News.

"Nothing can justify or explain this, and it cannot be forgiven for any reason," he said, stressing that looters should be distinguished from protesters making "legitimate demands." President Macron asked, "How can the French people do this to France?" He added that the "unrestrained" violence during the unrest "cannot be justified by anything" and said those involved would be punished under the law.

Earlier, on October 17, large-scale protests took place across France over rising fuel prices and the cost of living, as well as deteriorating public services, including schools. A total of 550,000 people took to the streets, and violent incidents, including arson, occurred in some areas. According to France's Interior Ministry, about 2,400 people were arrested in connection with the unrest. About 1,000 police officers were also injured, seven of them seriously.

President Macron also said he would give mayors and prefects appointed by the central government the authority to ban specific rallies. He also promised to "ensure complete transparency" regarding the police response to the protests. Police had previously used tear gas and water cannons to disperse protesters.

The protests grew into a large-scale movement after labor unions and anti-government groups joined student protests that began in September. Political divisions in France are also deepening ahead of the presidential election in April 2027. Meanwhile, some analysts say the protests also reflect anger over President Macron's policy failures, including a fragile economy and rapidly rising national debt. President Macron, who took office in 2017, is scheduled to leave office next year after completing 10 years in power.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.