Violence risk remains high

French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu warned on Friday that the risk of violence remained high, emphasizing that the level of threat had not decreased. He made the remarks during a visit to Limoges, where he addressed concerns about potential actions by "ultraleft" groups and criminal elements that might use demonstrations as an opportunity for looting and other illegal activities.

Criminality and unrest linked

Lecornu said that vigilance was needed against criminality, which he claimed could exploit the unrest to create confusion and commit theft. He also mentioned that authorities had learned from the previous day's tensions and planned to adjust security measures, especially regarding how forces would be deployed on Saturday.

Macron meets student leaders

President Emmanuel Macron sought to ease tensions after over a month of student protests by hosting representatives from student organizations at the Élysée Palace. This was the first time such a meeting had taken place, and discussions lasted over two and a half hours, covering topics such as the future of Parcoursup, the college admissions platform, learning conditions, and school renovations.

Government openness not enough

Macron acknowledged the need for a "deep overhaul" of Parcoursup, and his team announced initial government commitments following a meeting with Lecornu. However, student organizations remained unconvinced, with some representatives noting a "crack" in the government’s position and others calling for continued pressure to secure concrete measures. The mobilization is expected to continue despite these discussions.

Security measures for Saturday

France is preparing for another day of mobilization on Saturday, following a tense climate after the violence and looting of the previous weekend. Significant security deployments are planned in several cities, including Paris, where demonstrations and disruptions are expected. In Orléans, a counter-demonstration is also scheduled alongside the congress of the Rassemblement national.