French police deploy 70,000 officers, close Paris museums ahead of protests

French police will deploy roughly 70,000 officers across the country on Saturday, and several of Paris’s most visited museums will shut their doors as authorities brace for a new wave of protests following looting and unrest that erupted on the fringes of demonstrations a week earlier. The security sweep comes as the government seeks to prevent further violence and protect cultural sites ahead of nationwide rallies.

The unrest began in late March when high‑school students took to the streets to demand better learning conditions, citing overcrowded classrooms and outdated resources. Their grievances quickly merged with a broader anger over rising living costs, turning a localized education protest into a nationwide movement. Over the past few days, demonstrations have spread from Paris to cities such as Lyon, Marseille and Lille, often turning chaotic when fringe groups engaged in looting and clashes with police. The authorities now view the Saturday protests as a critical flashpoint that could reignite similar disorder.

Officials say the police deployment includes riot units, mobile squads and additional officers from regional forces, bringing the total to about 70,000 – the largest mobilization since the 2023 pension strikes. Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin warned that “any attempt to destabilise public order will be met with firm action.” Museum directors in Paris confirmed that the Louvre, Musée d’Orsay and Centre Pompidou will remain closed on Saturday, citing safety concerns for staff and visitors. Student leaders, meanwhile, have urged peaceful marches and warned that heavy police presence could inflame tensions further.

The coming days will test whether the security plan can contain the protests without sparking new confrontations. Police have set up checkpoints around major transport hubs and will monitor social media for calls to violence. If the demonstrations remain peaceful, the closures could be lifted quickly, but any escalation may lead to extended restrictions on public gatherings and further disruptions to tourism. The government hopes the show of force will deter looting and keep France’s cultural heritage safe while allowing the underlying social grievances to be addressed through dialogue.