Macron calls for calm in France and warns rioting must not escalate - BBC
French President Emmanuel Macron has called for calm following widespread rioting and looting across France sparked by protests over the cost of living. While acknowledging legitimate grievances, Macron condemned the violence and promised that those responsible for the destruction of public property would face justice.
Why it matters
The civil unrest represents a significant challenge to the French government's stability and highlights growing public dissatisfaction with economic conditions in Europe.
Share Save Add as preferred on Google Jack Burgess Watch: James Waterhouse speaks to looted shop owners on the streets of Paris French President Emmanuel Macron has called for "calm and order" after a major day of protests turned into rioting and looting on Saturday, and as some disorder continued in Paris on Sunday.
In a national address from the Élysée Palace, he warned those who had taken part not to "escalate", adding: "We all feel anger and shame."
Some 550,000 demonstrators took to the streets for largely peaceful protests against rising fuel prices, the cost of living and deteriorating public services, including schools.
Macron said a distinction must be drawn between the "legitimate demands" of protesters and "those who destroyed, smashed and looted".
Police have arrested about 2,400 people, according to France's interior ministry.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in