Police actions and protest regulations face scrutiny in Portugal and France

In Porto, Portugal, the Public Security Police (PSP) conducted a forceful operation in the early morning hours to dismantle a housing movement protest camp at Praça Dom João I. While authorities describe the action as a necessary measure, protesters have filed complaints alleging arbitrary violence. Legal experts note that while the right to protest is a fundamental constitutional right, it is not absolute and must be balanced against proportionality and specific legal frameworks regarding assembly times.

In France, Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez has authorized the use of stun grenades (M84 flashbangs) during upcoming protests against the rising cost of living. Although these weapons are typically prohibited during student demonstrations, the government stated they may be deployed in cases of extreme urban violence. This decision follows reports of police violence, including investigations into allegations where protesters, including minors, sustained serious injuries from explosive devices.