Thousands marched in Orléans on October 24 against the far-right National Rally’s two-day congress, with crowd estimates ranging from 11,000 by authorities to 26,000 by organizers. Called by parties, unions and civic groups under slogans opposing racism and fascism, the protest drew Socialist leader Olivier Faure, Saint-Denis Mayor Bally Bagayoko and CGT chief Sophie Binet; participants also criticized President Emmanuel Macron. The congress is a major campaign event for Marine Le Pen ahead of France’s 2027 presidential election and is expected to see Jordan Bardella re-elected as party leader. Nearly 3,000 police and gendarmes were deployed, transport was restricted and the march route was changed to keep it away from the congress; no arrests had been reported at the time of an update. Tensions were heightened by a deadly attack in Trappes under investigation for possible racist motives, as France also faced wider demonstrations over the cost of living; Le Pen was due to deliver a campaign-launch speech on Sunday.
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Oct 24, 2026France plans 70,000 police and military for Saturday protests after recent riots and looting.Oct 24, 2026Italy deploys thousands of officers ahead of nationwide protests following Milan looting arrests.Oct 19, 2026French President Emmanuel Macron condemned looting and violence during nationwide protests over living costs.
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