Hundreds of protests expected across France as authorities try to prevent further civil unrest – Europe live
Businesses across major French cities are boarding up storefronts in anticipation of widespread civil unrest. Shop owners are expressing significant financial strain and fear as they prepare for potential looting during upcoming protests.
Why it matters
The preemptive fortification of businesses highlights a significant escalation in social tension and economic instability within France.
A jogger runs past a Societe Generale bank branch with its storefronts protected by wooden panels on the Champs-Elysees avenue in Paris ahead of nationwide protests on October 24, 2026. All through the night in neighbourhoods in the centre and east of Paris, the sound of sawing, drilling and hammering rang out as wooden boards were hastily secured into place to cover windows and shop-fronts.
Businesses being boarded up included opticians, supermarkets and pharmacies as well as trainers and handbag stores.
Headlinne story · 7 newsrooms
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