France: Thousands march in Orléans against National Rally congress

Thousands of anti-fascist protesters took to the streets of Orléans on Saturday to demonstrate against a congress held by Marine Le Pen’s far-right National Rally party. Marchers criticised both Le Pen and President Emmanuel Macron, chanting slogans and carrying banners opposing the far right. The protest came amid renewed nationwide demonstrations over the cost of living, a week after rallies descended into street violence. The two-day congress also marked a major campaign event for Le Pen ahead of France’s presidential election in six months’ time. Antonia Kerrigan reports the latest from Or

Published on RocksNews: 24 Oct 2026, 12:16 UTC
Updated: 24 Oct 2026, 12:16 UTC
Language: English

France: Thousands march in Orléans against National Rally congress — Image credit: France 24 (English)

France: March against National Rally in Orleans

Against this backdrop of heightened tensions, France’s far-right National Rally is holding its annual congress in Orléans, south of Paris, where it is expected to officially launch Marine Le Pen’s presidential campaign and re-elect Jordan Bardella as party leader. Thousands of supporters are expected to attend, while a major counter-demonstration has been organised against racism, fascism and imperialism. Local authorities are preparing for possible clashes between the two groups. Antonia Kerrigan reports the latest.

24 Oct 2026, 11:15 UTC