Emmanuel Macron warned on Monday that the risk of unrest at the next protest on 31 October remains “high” and criticised the role of social media in the violence that erupted on 17 October. Speaking from Marseille, the president thanked interior security forces for their work the previous Saturday and said the government must prepare for the coming demonstrations. Macron visited the Marseille city hall together with mayor Benoît Payan after the building was partially vandalised during the October 17 riots. He said he has asked his government to address the “legitimate demands at the root of the social movement.” Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu will soon issue “strong announcements and progress” on measures, following a meeting with secondary‑school student representatives who have been on strike for more than a month demanding better study conditions. The president also announced that the government will hold meetings with trade unions and employer associations to respond to demands related to the rising cost of living, a key driver of the protests organised by unions and the “yellow‑vest” movement. Macron dismissed the possibility of a state of emergency, stating that it is not a taboo but could be considered if the situation deteriorates. In the meantime, the French government has banned certain protest routes to avoid city centres and has imposed partial curfews in some areas. Macron said that social media “damage democracy” because they polarise, create a sense of detachment from scenes of violence, and can be used as a tool for the worst forms of mobilisation. He alleged that platforms were used to coordinate vandalism on 17 October, which included damage to buildings, public furniture and shop looting. Macron concluded that living together in the Republic means preserving institutions, respecting one another, expressing disagreements and seeking political and social compromises. He reminded that the country is six months away from presidential elections.
Article source: El Nuevo Diario | Image credit: El Nuevo Diario