What in the World - How have the protests in France changed?

Download How have the protests in France changed?

Protests are still ongoing across France, but now it’s no longer just about schools. People of all ages are protesting over a high cost of living. But there was violence and riots over the weekend, with thousands of arrests.

Dramatic pictures of wreckage, fires and police clampdowns have spread online and have had a huge response internationally. But what exactly is happening and why have things shifted since earlier protests this month? We hear from BBC reporter Pierre-Antoine Denis, about what has caused this intense shift.

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Presenter: Iqra Farooq
Producers: Emily Horler and Benita Barden
Editor: Verity Wilde

Published on Wednesday, 21st October 2026.

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