Thailand’s foreign minister warns on October 19 over protests in four European nations
Thais in France, Italy, Portugal and Belgium are advised to avoid protest sites and follow official updates, with no travel ban imposed.
- Thailand's Foreign Minister, Sihasak Phuangketkeow, issued a warning for Thai nationals to exercise caution amid protests in four European nations: France, Italy, Portugal, and Belgium.
- The minister expressed particular concern over violent demonstrations in Paris but clarified that the advisory is a warning, not a formal travel ban.
- Thai citizens planning to visit or currently in these countries are advised to avoid protest areas, monitor official updates, and contact the relevant Thai embassy if they encounter problems.
Thai Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow advised Thai nationals on October 19, 2026, to exercise caution amid protests in France, Italy, Portugal and Belgium, stressing that the warnings did not amount to a travel ban.
Speaking in Rome during an official trip to Italy and the Holy See, Sihasak said he was closely monitoring demonstrations around Europe and was particularly concerned about the violence in Paris.
Thai embassy advises avoiding Paris protest sites
The Royal Thai Embassy in Paris has already warned Thai nationals to stay away from demonstration areas and take extra care, according to Sihasak.
Sihasak said French President Emmanuel Macron had held a meeting as part of efforts to restore calm after protest violence in France, enforce the law and support people who had suffered losses.
Sihasak links French unrest to other European protests
Sihasak expressed concern that protests in France had helped trigger similar demonstrations elsewhere in Europe. He cited protests in Milan, Italy, over living costs, employment and education, as well as demonstrations in Portugal and Belgium.
Sihasak noted that Portugal was also on his forthcoming itinerary and said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs would continue monitoring the European protests and updating its travel advice.
Thai nationals planning to visit France, Italy, Portugal or Belgium should contact the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or check its website for the latest announcements, Sihasak advised. Thai nationals already in those countries who encounter problems should contact the relevant Thai embassy.
French students join wider protests over living costs
France’s student movement has joined wider protests over living costs. The student protests began in September, with demands for more staff and better facilities, alongside complaints about long school days and university admissions.
French demonstrations on October 17 drew more than half a million people protesting over living costs and declining public services. Many marched peacefully, while violent groups looted shops and attacked public buildings.
French Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez reported 2,400 arrests nationwide following the October 17 protests. Fresh clashes erupted in Paris and Marseille on October 18.
French President Emmanuel Macron condemned protest violence in France in a televised address on October 18 while acknowledging the legitimate concerns of peaceful demonstrators. Macron promised support for affected businesses and announced plans for talks involving students, teachers, unions and employers to address the grievances.
