Macron Urges Calm and Order After Violent Protests in France

French President Emmanuel Macron has urged the country to keep peace and order after large protests against the cost of living on Saturday descended into rioting and looting in several cities, BBC reports. Unrest in Paris continued on Sunday.

In an address to the nation from the Élysée Palace, Macron warned demonstrators not to let the situation escalate further. "We all feel anger and shame," he said. He stressed the need to separate the protesters' "legitimate demands" from the actions of those "who wrecked, vandalised and looted."

What the protests were about

About 550,000 people took to the streets across France to protest rising fuel prices and living costs, as well as a decline in the quality of public services, including education. Most of the demonstrations were peaceful.

Groups of violent individuals also appeared in Paris, Marseille and other cities. Some of the rioters wore black clothing, masks and face coverings. Cars and buildings were set on fire in several places, while shops and other commercial premises were looted on a large scale in Paris, Marseille, Lille and elsewhere.

Over the weekend, police used tear gas and water cannon against protesters. In several places, officers were seen striking people with batons to prevent disorder.

The authorities' response

According to France's Interior Ministry, police have detained roughly 2,400 people. The ministry also said about 1,000 police officers were injured on Saturday, seven of them seriously.

Macron said "nothing justifies" the "unrestrained" violence and that those responsible would have to answer before the law. He added that local prefects and municipal leaders would draw up measures to protect shops and public buildings. The president also promised "complete transparency" regarding police conduct during the demonstrations.