France minister warns of Halloween protest violence

French Interior Minister Laurent Nunez warned of a “very high risk of urban violence” as authorities prepared for demonstrations planned for Saturday, which coincides with Halloween.

The Yellow Vest movement and high school and university student unions have called for a new day of protests. France has faced widespread anger over the rising cost of living and inequality, with nationwide demonstrations on October 17 followed by some of the country's worst rioting in years.

In a directive signed Wednesday, Nunez instructed the Paris police chief and regional prefects to prepare a “robust” security deployment.

The directive said multiple social media calls had been identified for gatherings in city centres and public squares under the pretext of Halloween. Nunez said the analysis of those calls showed an intention to commit further violence and disorder.

Authorities have acknowledged security and intelligence failures before the October 17 clashes, looting and vandalism. Last weekend's rallies were largely peaceful, though street violence occurred in Paris and other cities.

The protests come in a tense political climate, six months before presidential elections, with far-right leader Marine Le Pen leading opinion polls.

On Monday, the government announced measures aimed at student protesters' demands, including replacing the university admissions platform and providing loans for school renovations.