Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 04:11pm on 19 Oct 2026,Monday International
Violent protests across France have left historic buildings and businesses damaged, with fires destroying much of Limoges town hall and engulfing Lyon’s tourist office. In Paris, protesters set vehicles and kiosks alight, smashed shopfronts and looted stores. In Marseille, demonstrators broke into the city hall and damaged a bust of Marianne, a symbol of the French Republic. The protests began over rising fuel prices, living costs and declining public services, although most demonstrators were peaceful. Authorities have acknowledged difficulties controlling the unrest. Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu has authorised local mayors to introduce partial curfews to protect residents and businesses. (PC: BBC)
