French authorities have banned certain protests in the wake of nationwide unrest that erupted last weekend, with President Emmanuel Macron emphasizing the need to restore public order and protect businesses and public buildings. Speaking after a security council meeting on Thursday, Macron stated that demonstrations not organized by legitimate groups, such as trade unions, would be prohibited to prevent further violence.

The recent wave of protests began several weeks ago among high school students and expanded into broader expressions of discontent over living costs and the President’s policies. Last weekend’s protests, which saw hundreds of thousands participating across cities, devolved into violent riots involving looting and clashes with police. Authorities reported that around 3,000 shops were damaged or looted, nearly 1,000 police officers were injured, and more than 2,500 people were arrested. The government has blamed extremist “ultra-leftist” groups and opportunistic criminals for instigating the violence, while maintaining that peaceful protesters should not be held responsible.

In response to the disturbances, officials have implemented targeted bans on demonstrations in several cities, including Paris, Marseille, Lyon, Nice, Grenoble, and Le Mans, with some bans extending for multiple days. Authorities have also announced heightened security measures for upcoming protests, including a "massive" police presence and the possible deployment of army personnel to secure transportation hubs and sensitive sites. Paris City Hall has taken additional precautions by removing potential materials that could be used to cause damage during protests. In some areas like the Var department, further restrictions such as bans on face coverings, protective clothing, and fireworks sales have been imposed.

While Macron’s administration seeks to restrict unauthorized demonstrations, union-led protests have been granted permission, albeit with alternative routes proposed to protect city centers. The major labor union CGT is preparing a large protest in Paris scheduled for Saturday, viewed as a continuation of last weekend’s rallies. However, left-wing and student groups have criticized the government’s actions, with leaders from several movements and unions calling the restrictions part of an “authoritarian shift” that threatens democratic rights. A student union challenged a police ban on Thursday’s protests in an administrative court and was allowed to march despite official prohibitions.

The unrest has not only escalated political tensions, particularly as Macron’s minority government faces opposition to its deficit-cutting budget plans, but also raised economic concerns. France’s bond yields climbed to their highest levels since the early 2000s amid fears of political paralysis affecting financial stability. Additionally, the disturbances have impacted tourism and cultural events; the Art Basel Paris art fair canceled its public weekend sessions, citing safety concerns.

Authorities are closely monitoring upcoming demonstrations, with special attention on Orléans, where the far-right Rassemblement National party is holding a conference expected to draw 15,000 attendees. Left-wing activists have called for counter-protests there, prompting local officials to prepare for large crowds and potential clashes. The government continues to emphasize its commitment to maintaining order as France navigates this turbulent period.