In brief
Over the weekend, cities across France erupted in looting, vandalism and riots, following a wave of student protests over school conditions. Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu announced a temporary curfew for affected areas. BBC Paris correspondent Hugh Schofield warns that the violence could magnify tensions ahead of France’s national election, potentially giving opposition parties an opening. Live coverage continues on BBC News.
Over the weekend, cities and towns across France erupted in riots, looting, and vandalism as protesters took to the streets. The violence followed a month‑old wave of student demonstrations over school conditions, which quickly broadened into a wider expression of discontent over a variety of social and economic grievances.
The unrest prompted Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu to announce that local authorities could enforce a temporary curfew in affected areas to protect residents and businesses.
BBC Paris correspondent Hugh Schofield analyses how the country is now “reeling” from the violence and what this may portend for the upcoming national election. If the morality and security of the government are seen as slipping, opposition parties may use the momentum to contest a potentially tighter‑than‑usual electoral campaign.
For live coverage, refer to BBC live news.
