Riot police clash with demonstrators during nationwide protests in Besançon, France

On November 5, 2026, in Besançon, France, @louis_7_2 shared a video of a confrontation between riot police and demonstrators during a social protest. In the video, three riot police officers wearing helmets and full protective gear are seen apprehending several individuals directly across tramway tracks embedded in the paved street, while other masked demonstrators watch nearby. According to reports, the incident occurred during a nationwide day of strikes and demonstrations over rising living costs, underfunded schools, and stagnant wages. Approximately 9,000 to 10,000 people reportedly marched through Besançon, but tensions escalated when a group of demonstrators deviated from the authorized route and attempted to enter the historic city center. Police used tear gas and batons to disperse the crowd, with clashes particularly reported around the Battant district. Authorities confirmed seven arrests and two injured police officers during the day's unrest.