Violence in France is a consequence of the last decade's political reconfiguration

Nathalie Segaunes

Saturday, October 17, was unprecedented for France in two ways. Traditionally, six months ahead of a crucial presidential election, the country listens to candidates, compares their platforms and sometimes participates in the selection process through a primary. But in an anxious climate marked by the climate crisis, surging fuel prices and international conflicts, mounting discontent sent hundreds of thousands of anxious and angry French people into the streets.

A nascent convergence of protest movements – with no shared political goals – took shape on Saturday. It brought together notably some members of the Yellow Vest movement, who have seen their living conditions deteriorate since their protests began in 2018, and high school students legitimately concerned about their future, for whom the Lecornu government has shown little empathy or understanding.

But what will remain etched in the collective memory is the wave of violence that erupted during the October 17 protests. Alongside the intolerable looting that ravaged many businesses, a form of political violence emerged, directed against symbols of the French Republic and representatives of state authority. City halls and prefectures were targeted and, in some cases, set on fire. On Saturday night, law enforcement clashed with rioters less than 300 meters from the Elysée Palace.

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