Paris museums close, shops build barricades ahead of more protests

Police forces have been mobilized nationwide, including helicopters, armored vehicles, and water cannons, as the country braces for a potential repeat of last weekend's clashes.

The unrest began last month with student protests in southeastern Paris over working conditions and has since expanded into a broader movement against the high cost of living.

Some 3,000 shops were damaged or looted last weekend, with cities like Limoges reporting significant incidents, including a suspected arson that nearly destroyed the 19th-century city hall.

Museums and shops close

Major museums, including the Louvre, Orsay Museum, Picasso Museum, and Grand Palais, have closed their doors for the day, with the threat of unrest prompting organizers to cancel weekend programs for the prestigious Art Basel fair.

Shopkeepers across France have been barricading their stores all week, with wooden panels and boards used to deter potential looters, particularly in areas like Place de la République that were hotspots last weekend.

Protests against far right

About 50 organizations, including labor unions, left-wing parties, and student groups, have called for protests against the far right on the sidelines of Marine Le Pen's two-day congress, which is taking place ahead of next spring's presidential election.

While marches are scheduled in Paris and Marseille, local authorities have banned rallies in other cities such as Lyon, Nice, and Montpellier.