French President Emmanuel Macron has accused social media platforms of damaging democracy, alleging that they were used to mobilise people during recent protests marked by violence and looting in France.
Macron made the remarks on Monday, October 26, 2026, during a visit to Marseille, as authorities struggled to contain weeks of unrest.
He said social media was particularly used during disturbances on October 17 to direct both young and older people towards locations where criminal activities, attacks and looting were taking place.
The French president described the platforms as “tools for mobilising the worst impulses”, raising concerns about their role in escalating public disorder.
His comments come amid continued tensions over the use of social media to organise gatherings and spread information during periods of unrest.
Macron’s remarks highlight growing concerns among political leaders about the influence of digital platforms on public safety, social stability and democratic institutions.
