Cost-of-living protests turn violent across France

In October 2026, protests over the cost of living spread across France, with clashes, fires and looting reported in several cities. Hundreds of people were arrested, and shops including Louis Vuitton and Hermès stores were ransacked. Students joined the rallies, and the unrest was described as the largest in years.

The protests also reached Belgium, Italy and Portugal. In France, the demonstrations put pressure on the government ahead of the 2027 vote.