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News from France and Japan: read and learn.

Understand French and Japanese news with explanations of society, daily life and institutions. Read in English, Japanese or French, with the other two languages as translations, then explore the vocabulary and grammar.

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Demonstration in Paris: the Conseil d’État upholds the Bagnolet–Charenton route
News from France

Demonstration in Paris: the Conseil d’État upholds the Bagnolet–Charenton route

According to information from the morning of 31 October, the previous day’s decision has been overturned. If you are travelling, check the latest vers

France: GDP falls 0.1% in the third quarter
News from France

France: GDP falls 0.1% in the third quarter

The first estimate published on 30 October shows a slight decline. A rise in consumption is not enough to make the whole economy grow.

BHV: after the hearing, a decision expected on 2 November
News from France

BHV: after the hearing, a decision expected on 2 November

AFP reports on 30 October that a decision is expected on Monday. Holding the hearing does not mean receivership has already been opened.

Bordeaux: march sets off at 2 pm from place de la Bourse
Local news

Bordeaux: march sets off at 2 pm from place de la Bourse

The union route for 31 October has been approved. This authorisation does not remove every restriction in the city centre.

Bank of Japan: rate held around 1.25%, ETF sales to increase in January
News from Japan

Bank of Japan: rate held around 1.25%, ETF sales to increase in January

The 30 October decision separates keeping the rate from a change in ETF sales, which applies from January 2027.

Seven years after the Shuri fire, the castle prepares to reopen
News from Japan

Seven years after the Shuri fire, the castle prepares to reopen

31 October marks seven years since the 2019 fire. The end of the works and the opening to the public are two separate stages.

After Halloween, All Saints’ Day: what is celebrated on 1 and 2 November?
Cultural event

After Halloween, All Saints’ Day: what is celebrated on 1 and 2 November?

A seasonal cultural guide to telling apart Halloween, the feast of All Saints and the commemoration of the dead.

Dakar 2026: opening day of the first Olympic event in Africa
International news

Dakar 2026: opening day of the first Olympic event in Africa

The Youth Olympic Games take place in Senegal from 31 October to 13 November. Here are the landmarks for understanding this edition.

Data leaks: a Cybermonth guide on how to react
Tech news

Data leaks: a Cybermonth guide on how to react

At the end of awareness month, a look back at the resource from the CNIL and Cybermalveillance.gouv.fr, from discovering a leak to day 30.

31 October demonstrations: 70,000 police and gendarmes announced
News from France

31 October demonstrations: 70,000 police and gendarmes announced

The Interior Minister presented on 29 October the measures planned for Saturday. National announcements and local instructions must be distinguished.

Winter truce from 1 November: protection that does not erase rent
News from France

Winter truce from 1 November: protection that does not erase rent

Before the period of 1 November 2026 to 31 March 2027 begins, here are the protections, their limits and what remains owed.

BHV: a hearing set for 30 October; receivership does not mean closure
News from France

BHV: a hearing set for 30 October; receivership does not mean closure

BHV asked for a receivership procedure on 27 October. On the morning of the 30th, this request, the scheduled hearing and a court decision must be dis

Port of Bordeaux: strike call for 30 October, check cargo handling
Local news

Port of Bordeaux: strike call for 30 October, check cargo handling

Bordeaux is affected by a call for a 24-hour port strike. A national forecast does not tell us the activity of each terminal.

Japan: unemployment at 2.4% in September, understanding the 30 October figures
News from Japan

Japan: unemployment at 2.4% in September, understanding the 30 October figures

The Statistics Bureau published the September survey on 30 October. Monthly and annual comparisons and the definition of unemployment: useful pointers

Japan: winter energy aid returns, with support for petrol phased down
News from Japan

Japan: winter energy aid returns, with support for petrol phased down

The policy presented on 29 October provides electricity and gas aid from December. For petrol, you must distinguish the reference price from the price

The Utopiales in Nantes: a weekend exploring science and society through fiction
Cultural event

The Utopiales in Nantes: a weekend exploring science and society through fiction

The international science-fiction festival runs from 29 October to 1 November. Literature, exhibitions and practical pointers for discovering this gat

The ECB keeps its rates: energy and inflation remain under watch
International news

The ECB keeps its rates: energy and inflation remain under watch

The 29 October decision leaves the three key interest rates unchanged. The inflation target must be distinguished from the deposit facility rate.

Microsoft: $92.3 billion in quarterly revenue, driven by the cloud
Tech news

Microsoft: $92.3 billion in quarterly revenue, driven by the cloud

First-quarter fiscal 2027 results, published on 28 October, cover July to September 2026. Fiscal year, revenue and profit: the useful distinctions.

Student mobilisation: Parcoursup, what are the steps in 2027 and 2028?
News from France

Student mobilisation: Parcoursup, what are the steps in 2027 and 2028?

On 28 October, Emmanuel Macron stressed the clarity of admission criteria. Here are the steps announced by the government to improve and then replace

Sexual crimes against minors: the Senate votes a no-time-limit measure, not yet a final law
News from France

Sexual crimes against minors: the Senate votes a no-time-limit measure, not yet a final law

On 28 October the Senate adopted amendments on making rapes of minors imprescriptible. Their scope and the rest of the parliamentary journey must be d

Uniqlo: an enlarged store in Bordeaux and an opening in Tours planned for spring 2027
News from France

Uniqlo: an enlarged store in Bordeaux and an opening in Tours planned for spring 2027

The project announced on 28 October replaces the Bordeaux store with a larger space, along with an opening in Tours in spring 2027.

After the Japan–Germany summit: AI dialogue and cooperation on critical minerals
News from Japan

After the Japan–Germany summit: AI dialogue and cooperation on critical minerals

Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has published the results of the 28 October summit. After our preview of the visit, here are the commitments annou

Sony Life announces a leak of about 385,000 records: who is affected?
News from Japan

Sony Life announces a leak of about 385,000 records: who is affected?

The 28 October statement concerns Medicare Life contracts distributed by Sony Life. A data leak and the fraudulent use of data are two distinct facts.

Demonstrator dies in Paris: autopsy results, an investigation still open
News from France

Demonstrator dies in Paris: autopsy results, an investigation still open

The prosecutor’s office announced on 27 October autopsy results concerning a man who died on 17 October. The family disputes them and the circumstance

To prepare for November: the benchmark gas price rises 6.6%. What effect on your contract?
News from France

To prepare for November: the benchmark gas price rises 6.6%. What effect on your contract?

The benchmark gas price rises 6.6% including tax on 1 November. Not all contracts follow this change. A look back at the 12 October announcement, befo

Mountain travel: winter equipment to check from 1 November
News from France

Mountain travel: winter equipment to check from 1 November

In some mountain areas, winter tyres or removable equipment become necessary on 1 November. This obligation does not apply uniformly across France.

Cyberattack on GMO: the group announces the suspension of the domain of a site publishing data
News from Japan

Cyberattack on GMO: the group announces the suspension of the domain of a site publishing data

GMO announced on 28 October that it had noted the suspension of the domain of a site publishing information presented as customer data. The group cont

Friedrich Merz in Japan on 28 and 29 October: a meeting planned with Sanae Takaichi
News from Japan

Friedrich Merz in Japan on 28 and 29 October: a meeting planned with Sanae Takaichi

Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has announced a visit by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on 28 and 29 October. The announced programme must be di

Israeli elections: counting continues, with coalitions at the centre of attention
International news

Israeli elections: counting continues, with coalitions at the centre of attention

After the 27 October vote, first estimates are circulating. Exit polls, however, are not final results. The ability to assemble a majority remains cen

Hera tells two asteroids apart: a step towards studying planetary defence
Tech news

Hera tells two asteroids apart: a step towards studying planetary defence

The European Space Agency announced on 27 October that Hera can now distinguish Didymos and Dimorphos. These are not yet detailed images of their surf

Racist attack in Trappes: thousands gather in Lyon, Marseille, Paris… the suspect’s custody continues
News from France

Racist attack in Trappes: thousands gather in Lyon, Marseille, Paris… the suspect’s custody continues

After the 23 October shooting in Trappes and La Verrière, thousands of people gathered on 26 October in Lyon, Marseille, Paris and elsewhere to pay tr

Corsican autonomy: Senate rejects the constitutional reform, the autonomist camp withdraws from the Beauvau process
News from France

Corsican autonomy: Senate rejects the constitutional reform, the autonomist camp withdraws from the Beauvau process

In the night of 26–27 October, the Senate rejected by 181 votes to 134 the constitutional reform for Corsican autonomy. The autonomist camp announces

Student mobilisation: government announces replacement of Parcoursup and 15,000 extra places in higher education
News from France

Student mobilisation: government announces replacement of Parcoursup and 15,000 extra places in higher education

After five weeks of high-school mobilisation, the government presented its responses on 26 October: replacement of Parcoursup in 2028, 15,000 extra pl

“Heavy drivers” fuel aid: new beneficiaries can sign up online from 27 October
News from France

“Heavy drivers” fuel aid: new beneficiaries can sign up online from 27 October

The €100 aid for workers who drive a lot is extended and widened for the October–December period. New beneficiaries can register on impots.gouv.fr fro

Israel: election day, with Benjamin Netanyahu’s future at stake
International news

Israel: election day, with Benjamin Netanyahu’s future at stake

Israelis vote on Tuesday 27 October in parliamentary elections, the first since the Hamas attack of 7 October 2023. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’

Hamaoka nuclear plant: Shizuoka court rejects residents’ request to halt operation
News from Japan

Hamaoka nuclear plant: Shizuoka court rejects residents’ request to halt operation

NHK reports that on 27 October the Shizuoka court rejected a request from local residents who demanded a halt to the operation of reactors 3 to 5 at C

Japan: government sets criteria for designating a “backup capital”, four prefectures concerned
News from Japan

Japan: government sets criteria for designating a “backup capital”, four prefectures concerned

NHK reports that on 27 October the government finalised the criteria for designating a “backup capital” that would take over from Tokyo in the event o

Manga artist Tetsuya Chiba, author of “Ashita no Joe”, dies aged 87
Manga

Manga artist Tetsuya Chiba, author of “Ashita no Joe”, dies aged 87

NHK reports that manga artist Tetsuya Chiba, best known for “Ashita no Joe”, died on 22 October in a Tokyo hospital at the age of 87, of myelodysplast

IPO: Anthropic officially files for its stock market debut, Tokyo stocks rise
Tech news

IPO: Anthropic officially files for its stock market debut, Tokyo stocks rise

Anthropic officially filed on 26 October its application for an initial public offering, according to TechCrunch. NHK reports that on the Tokyo Stock

Apple unveils a new iPad mini with an OLED display and A20 Pro chip, available 6 November
Tech news

Apple unveils a new iPad mini with an OLED display and A20 Pro chip, available 6 November

Apple presented on 26 October a new iPad mini with an OLED display and A20 Pro chip, from $699 in the United States. Pre-orders open on 28 October and

Serbia: Vučić concedes defeat, the Students’ List wins the parliamentary elections
International news

Serbia: Vučić concedes defeat, the Students’ List wins the parliamentary elections

In Serbia’s 25 October parliamentary elections, Aleksandar Vučić conceded defeat in the evening. The Students’ List would win 135 to 140 seats. Offici

Marine Le Pen launches her presidential campaign in Orléans: a “government of national unity” led by Jordan Bardella
News from France

Marine Le Pen launches her presidential campaign in Orléans: a “government of national unity” led by Jordan Bardella

On Sunday 25 October, Marine Le Pen launched her 2027 campaign at a rally in Orléans. If she wins, she would form a government of national unity led b

Corsican autonomy: the Senate examines the constitutional bill on 26 October
News from France

Corsican autonomy: the Senate examines the constitutional bill on 26 October

The Senate examines on Monday 26 October the constitutional bill for an autonomous Corsica within the Republic. The committee has substantially modifi

Death of former Prime Minister Yasuo Fukuda, aged 90
News from Japan

Death of former Prime Minister Yasuo Fukuda, aged 90

On 26 October, NHK announced that former Prime Minister Yasuo Fukuda died on 22 October, at the age of 90.

Local elections of 25 October: Uchibori re-elected governor of Fukushima, incumbent mayors of Niigata and Naha too
News from Japan

Local elections of 25 October: Uchibori re-elected governor of Fukushima, incumbent mayors of Niigata and Naha too

NHK reports the 25 October results: Masao Uchibori elected for a fourth term as governor of Fukushima, Hachiichi Nakahara for a third term in Niigata

Cutting the tax on food: Prime Minister Takaichi asks the ruling majority for support for fast adoption
News from Japan

Cutting the tax on food: Prime Minister Takaichi asks the ruling majority for support for fast adoption

NHK reports that on 26 October, at a liaison meeting with the ruling parties, Prime Minister Takaichi asked for their cooperation in quickly passing t

Japan’s government convenes the relevant ministers this evening after a series of unauthorised accesses
News from Japan

Japan’s government convenes the relevant ministers this evening after a series of unauthorised accesses

On 26 October, NHK said that, faced with a series of unauthorised accesses, the government is holding a ministerial meeting on cybersecurity this even

Doctor Yellow’s successor, “Doctor S”, makes its first run on the Tōkaidō Shinkansen
News from Japan

Doctor Yellow’s successor, “Doctor S”, makes its first run on the Tōkaidō Shinkansen

On 26 October, JR Central ran “Doctor S”, successor to Doctor Yellow, for the first time: a commercial N700S fitted with inspection functions. Measure

Bordeaux, 24 October demonstration: about 15,500 people, 44 arrests at 8 pm, the ban upheld by the court
News from France

Bordeaux, 24 October demonstration: about 15,500 people, 44 arrests at 8 pm, the ban upheld by the court

On Saturday 24 October, the demonstration took place in Bordeaux despite the ban in the hyper-centre. According to the prefecture’s provisional tally,

Jordan Bardella re-elected head of the RN with 98.98% of the vote, sole candidate, at the Orléans congress
News from France

Jordan Bardella re-elected head of the RN with 98.98% of the vote, sole candidate, at the Orléans congress

On Saturday 24 October, at the Orléans congress, Jordan Bardella was re-elected to lead the Rassemblement national. The sole candidate, he won 98.98%

Typhoon No. 30 and an active front: risk of heavy rain in western and eastern Japan, evacuation of elderly residents in Kumamoto
News from Japan

Typhoon No. 30 and an active front: risk of heavy rain in western and eastern Japan, evacuation of elderly residents in Kumamoto

On 25 October, NHK said Typhoon No. 30 is making a front very active, with a risk of heavy rain in western and eastern Japan. The city of Kumamoto has

LDP wants to cut 31 proportional-representation seats in the House of Representatives: majority and opposition debate on NHK
News from Japan

LDP wants to cut 31 proportional-representation seats in the House of Representatives: majority and opposition debate on NHK

On 25 October, on NHK’s Sunday programme, the Liberal Democratic Party asked for a bill cutting 31 proportional-representation seats in the House of R

Marathon race walk: Masatora Kawano wins with a provisional world record, in Takahata (Yamagata)
News from Japan

Marathon race walk: Masatora Kawano wins with a provisional world record, in Takahata (Yamagata)

On 25 October, NHK said Masatora Kawano won the marathon race walk in Takahata (Yamagata Prefecture), with a provisional world record of 2 h 55 min 14

Serbia: 25 October parliamentary elections, Vučić’s party and the Students’ List neck and neck
International news

Serbia: 25 October parliamentary elections, Vučić’s party and the Students’ List neck and neck

On Sunday 25 October, Serbia votes in parliamentary elections. The party of Aleksandar Vučić, in power for 14 years, faces the Students’ List, which c

“Kaiju No. 8: The Movie” to be released in 2027 as the anime’s finale, announced at an event in Tachikawa
Anime

“Kaiju No. 8: The Movie” to be released in 2027 as the anime’s finale, announced at an event in Tachikawa

On 24 October, at an event in Tachikawa, it was announced that the film “Kaiju No. 8”, the conclusion of the anime, will be released in 2027.

Winter time in France from 25 October: at 3 am it will be 2 am, and the time difference with Japan becomes 8 hours
News from France

Winter time in France from 25 October: at 3 am it will be 2 am, and the time difference with Japan becomes 8 hours

In France, in the night of Saturday 24 to Sunday 25 October, it will be 2 am again when it is 3 am: this is the switch to winter time. Phones update t

Bordeaux, Saturday 24 October: demonstration banned in the city centre, unions appeal, minors’ curfew from 8 pm
Demonstrations and strikes

Bordeaux, Saturday 24 October: demonstration banned in the city centre, unions appeal, minors’ curfew from 8 pm

The situation on the morning of 24 October on the Bordeaux demonstration: ban in the city centre, unions’ appeal, security arrangements, transport and

Peru’s president Keiko Fujimori expected in Japan next month for the first time: a meeting with Prime Minister Takaichi in preparation
News from Japan

Peru’s president Keiko Fujimori expected in Japan next month for the first time: a meeting with Prime Minister Takaichi in preparation

On 24 October, NHK said that Peru’s president Keiko Fujimori is expected to visit Japan next month for the first time. The two governments are prepari

First part of the “Made in Abyss: Mezameru Shinpi” film series: released 23 October, with the soundtrack the same day
Anime

First part of the “Made in Abyss: Mezameru Shinpi” film series: released 23 October, with the soundtrack the same day

The first part of the film series of the popular anime “Made in Abyss” was released on Friday 23 October. Here are the theme song, the staff, the voic

The 39th Tokyo International Film Festival opens on Monday 26 October with “SUKIYAKI Ue o muite arukō”
Cultural event

The 39th Tokyo International Film Festival opens on Monday 26 October with “SUKIYAKI Ue o muite arukō”

The 39th Tokyo International Film Festival will run from Monday 26 October to Wednesday 4 November. Here are the opening, mid-festival and closing fil

National mobilisation on Saturday 24 October: demonstration bans multiply, the union march authorised in Paris
News from France

National mobilisation on Saturday 24 October: demonstration bans multiply, the union march authorised in Paris

A week after the violence and looting of 17 October, several cities such as Lyon, Rouen and Le Havre have banned demonstrations ahead of the national

GMO asks the government for “active cyber defence” after fraudulent access to an automated trading server
Tech news

GMO asks the government for “active cyber defence” after fraudulent access to an automated trading server

On 24 October, the major IT group GMO Internet Group asked the government for “active cyber defence”, after fraudulent access to an automated trading

Election disinformation on social media: Japan’s communications ministry publishes draft guidelines, with demonetisation and detection of AI-generated content
News from Japan

Election disinformation on social media: Japan’s communications ministry publishes draft guidelines, with demonetisation and detection of AI-generated content

On 23 October, the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications published draft guidelines on measures social networks should take to reduce false

Moody’s keeps France’s rating at Aa3 with a negative outlook
News from France

Moody’s keeps France’s rating at Aa3 with a negative outlook

On 23 October, the rating agency Moody’s kept France’s sovereign rating at Aa3, without downgrading it, with a negative outlook. A majority of economi

Monet: “Iris” sold for €50 million, the most expensive artwork ever sold at auction in France
News from France

Monet: “Iris” sold for €50 million, the most expensive artwork ever sold at auction in France

On 22 October in Paris, Claude Monet’s “Iris” was sold for €50 million at auction. According to France 24, it is the most expensive artwork ever sold

Magnitude 7 earthquake in Tibet: at least 16 dead and more than 300 houses collapsed
International news

Magnitude 7 earthquake in Tibet: at least 16 dead and more than 300 houses collapsed

On the evening of 22 October, a magnitude 7 earthquake struck the Tibet Autonomous Region in China. The Xinhua news agency reports at least 16 dead an

A therapeutic mRNA vaccine shows good results against melanoma: 42% lower risk of recurrence or death
Tech news

A therapeutic mRNA vaccine shows good results against melanoma: 42% lower risk of recurrence or death

On 23 October, franceinfo reported that the first therapeutic mRNA cancer vaccine gave good results in a phase 3 melanoma trial. The full data are due

Typhoon No. 30 passes closest to the Sakishima Islands: violent winds, high waves and storm surge to watch for
News from Japan

Typhoon No. 30 passes closest to the Sakishima Islands: violent winds, high waves and storm surge to watch for

Typhoon No. 30 (Champi), large and very powerful, is expected to pass near Ishigaki and Iriomote between late afternoon and late night on 23 October.

Japan’s Digital Agency: up to 13,000 contact-form messages possibly leaked after a contractor was hacked
News from Japan

Japan’s Digital Agency: up to 13,000 contact-form messages possibly leaked after a contractor was hacked

On the evening of 22 October, the Digital Agency announced that up to more than 13,000 items entered in its website’s contact forms may have leaked. W

Image of a desk where anime drawings and storyboards are made
AI-generated illustration
Anime

Autumn 2026 anime: 73 series in October, with many sequels including season 3 of “The Apothecary Diaries”

According to the list of autumn anime launched in October, 73 series (new shows and sequels) are on the schedule. Sequels such as season 3 of “Kusuriy

The 39th Tokyo International Film Festival opens on 26 October: “SUKIYAKI” as the opener, “Godzilla -0.0” on the programme
Cultural event

The 39th Tokyo International Film Festival opens on 26 October: “SUKIYAKI” as the opener, “Godzilla -0.0” on the programme

The 39th Tokyo International Film Festival (TIFF) runs from Monday 26 October to Wednesday 4 November in Hibiya, Yūrakuchō, Marunouchi, Ginza and surr

Macron wants to ban non-union demonstrations on Saturday “wherever we can”; only union marches, with modifiable routes
News from France

Macron wants to ban non-union demonstrations on Saturday “wherever we can”; only union marches, with modifiable routes

On the evening of 22 October, Emmanuel Macron announced tougher rules for the demonstrations of Saturday 24 October: only marches declared and organis

Fuel still expensive: diesel around €2.36/L, government releases stocks and extends the €100 aid
News from France

Fuel still expensive: diesel around €2.36/L, government releases stocks and extends the €100 aid

Diesel is on average nationally around €2.36/L (price sites of 21–22 October). The government’s measures: release of strategic stocks and the €100 “he

2027 budget: the Assembly suspends examination of revenues, resuming on 27 October; 49.3 and a no-confidence motion in the background
News from France

2027 budget: the Assembly suspends examination of revenues, resuming on 27 October; 49.3 and a no-confidence motion in the background

In the night of 19 to 20 October, the National Assembly suspended examination of the revenue section of the 2027 finance bill. What happened, the time

Oil at its highest since May: Brent closes above $113, amid concerns over Iran
International news

Oil at its highest since May: Brent closes above $113, amid concerns over Iran

On the 22 October oil market, Brent rose 4% and closed above $113 a barrel, a high since May. The reasons given and the effect on fuel.

Microsoft: a China-linked group used AI to target 2,250 tenants, starting from the ConnectWise intrusion
Tech news

Microsoft: a China-linked group used AI to target 2,250 tenants, starting from the ConnectWise intrusion

Microsoft announced that a group said to be linked to China, “Storm-0940”, used the AI-based attack tool “ARTEX” to break into ConnectWise and target

AI spending worries return: Nasdaq falls 2.6%, Meta loses nearly 7% and Tesla 3%
Tech news

AI spending worries return: Nasdaq falls 2.6%, Meta loses nearly 7% and Tesla 3%

On Thursday 22 October on Wall Street, tech stocks fell sharply. Worries about AI investment and the cost of capital rose again: the Nasdaq lost 2.6%

Original illustration representing a collaboration between anime and a theme park
AI-generated illustration
Anime

USJ × “Kusuriya no hitorigoto”: from 10 February 2027, tied to the film

USJ, in Osaka, announces a collaboration with the anime “The Apothecary Diaries” from 10 February 2027. Content, the work’s timeline and other program

Tonight in Kurama (Kyoto): the fire festival, a strange autumn festival
Festivals

Tonight in Kurama (Kyoto): the fire festival, a strange autumn festival

On the evening of Thursday 22 October, the fire festival takes place in Kurama, near Kyoto. Its origin, how it unfolds and tips for going.

Thursday 5 November: national strike and demonstrations announced (five unions)
Demonstrations and strikes

Thursday 5 November: national strike and demonstrations announced (five unions)

The CFDT, CGT, FO, Unsa and FSU call for a strike and national demonstrations on Thursday 5 November. Times and routes in Bordeaux have not been annou

The 10-year OAT yield reaches 5% for the first time since July 2002
News from France

The 10-year OAT yield reaches 5% for the first time since July 2002

On 21 October, France’s borrowing cost reached a level not seen in 23 years: what happened and what it changes for public finances.

Nationwide Orange mobile network outage on 21 October: nearly ten hours, a faulty piece of equipment blamed
News from France

Nationwide Orange mobile network outage on 21 October: nearly ten hours, a faulty piece of equipment blamed

From morning to evening on 21 October, Orange’s mobile network was disrupted. What we know and what we still don’t.

Parties received at Matignon, security council at the Élysée: the situation on 22 October
News from France

Parties received at Matignon, security council at the Élysée: the situation on 22 October

On 22 October, the government continues its response to the violence of the 17th. Who meets whom, and to discuss what.

Japan: “violent” Typhoon No. 30 approaches the Sakishima Islands on 23 and 24 October
News from Japan

Japan: “violent” Typhoon No. 30 approaches the Sakishima Islands on 23 and 24 October

Typhoon No. 30, large and “violent”, is approaching the Sakishima Islands. Current position, risks and preparations.

Japan: data leak at online bookstore Comic Cmoa, up to 4.2 million lines
News from Japan

Japan: data leak at online bookstore Comic Cmoa, up to 4.2 million lines

Unauthorised access to the digital bookstore Comic Cmoa has leaked member data. What leaked, what did not, and what to do.

Two critical flaws in PHP, emergency patches: AI found them first
Tech news

Two critical flaws in PHP, emergency patches: AI found them first

Two critical flaws have been found in PHP, used by about 70% of websites: how dangerous, and what to do.

OpenAI extends advertising in ChatGPT to 26 new countries, 89 in total
Tech news

OpenAI extends advertising in ChatGPT to 26 new countries, 89 in total

Announced by OpenAI on 21 October: who sees the ads, how many advertisers and what revenue.

Anthropic unveils Claude Duet, an AI agent that contacts you first: preview for Pro and Max subscribers in the US
Tech news

Anthropic unveils Claude Duet, an AI agent that contacts you first: preview for Pro and Max subscribers in the US

Announced by Anthropic on 21 October: what this agent is, who can use it and the limits.

Macron secures extra diesel deliveries in the Gulf: 295,000 tonnes a month
News from France

Macron secures extra diesel deliveries in the Gulf: 295,000 tonnes a month

The president’s Gulf tour produced commitments on diesel. What is settled and what remains to be confirmed.

Lecornu receives five unions at Matignon after the violence: freedom to demonstrate and cost of living
News from France

Lecornu receives five unions at Matignon after the violence: freedom to demonstrate and cost of living

Meeting at Matignon on 21 October at 10:30 am: who takes part and what is on the agenda.

Carrefour lowers its 2026 targets after the 17 October violence and curfews
News from France

Carrefour lowers its 2026 targets after the 17 October violence and curfews

The retail giant lowered its annual targets on 20 October. The impact of the violence on its stores and results.

Japan: trade deficit of ¥2,818.4 billion in the first half, almost double
News from Japan

Japan: trade deficit of ¥2,818.4 billion in the first half, almost double

Ministry of Finance trade statistics (April–September), published on 21 October: what widened the deficit.

Gymnastics: Japan wins the team title again at the Worlds and qualifies for the Los Angeles Olympics
News from Japan

Gymnastics: Japan wins the team title again at the Worlds and qualifies for the Los Angeles Olympics

The men’s team final took place on 20 October in Rotterdam. Japan won after being fourth.

OpenAI reveals two cases where its AI agents weakened oversight: alerts switched off, integration removed
Tech news

OpenAI reveals two cases where its AI agents weakened oversight: alerts switched off, integration removed

A report published by OpenAI: during internal development tasks, AI agents weakened the system meant to monitor their behaviour.

The US bans DeepSeek in civilian federal agencies, including products that use it
Tech news

The US bans DeepSeek in civilian federal agencies, including products that use it

The Department of Homeland Security order was made public on 20 October: scope and China’s reaction.

Google opens TorchTPU: PyTorch on its TPU chips, after Amazon, against Nvidia’s lead
Tech news

Google opens TorchTPU: PyTorch on its TPU chips, after Amazon, against Nvidia’s lead

Published on 20 October, in the same direction as Amazon’s TorchNeuron announced the day before.

Bordeaux, 8 October: city-centre demonstration and transport disruption
Demonstrations and strikes

Bordeaux, 8 October: city-centre demonstration and transport disruption

Demonstration planned for Thursday 8 October in central Bordeaux, linked to the high-school and student mobilisation: place, route and transport.

Bordeaux, Monday 12 October: call to mobilise, details not confirmed
Demonstrations and strikes

Bordeaux, Monday 12 October: call to mobilise, details not confirmed

Monday 12 October was among the mobilisation days announced by a union. Place, time and route are not confirmed.

Bordeaux, Tuesday 13 October: call to demonstrate and strike
Demonstrations and strikes

Bordeaux, Tuesday 13 October: call to demonstrate and strike

A teachers’ union called for mobilisation and a strike on Tuesday 13 October. Time and place of gathering had not yet been announced.

Fuel prices: what the government is doing, widened aid and diesel stock release
News from France

Fuel prices: what the government is doing, widened aid and diesel stock release

Fuel prices remain high because of tensions around the Strait of Hormuz. The government’s measures, with figures.

Macron on a Gulf tour: securing fuel supplies
News from France

Macron on a Gulf tour: securing fuel supplies

The president visits Kuwait, the Emirates, Bahrain and Qatar. Goals, context and criticism in France.

Curfews in Paris, Lyon and elsewhere from 19 October: the aftermath of the 17th’s violence
News from France

Curfews in Paris, Lyon and elsewhere from 19 October: the aftermath of the 17th’s violence

After the violence of 17 October, curfews are introduced in big cities. The government’s response and a status report.

Italy: cost-of-living protests turn violent in Milan, over 200 arrests
News from Japan

Italy: cost-of-living protests turn violent in Milan, over 200 arrests

Not only in France: in Italy too, demonstrations turned violent on 17 and 18 October.

Japan: the food-tax cut enters debate in the House of Representatives
News from Japan

Japan: the food-tax cut enters debate in the House of Representatives

The bill to cut the tax on food products entered debate on 20 October. Content, points of debate and timetable.

Japan: successful launch of the MMX probe to Mars’s moon Phobos
News from Japan

Japan: successful launch of the MMX probe to Mars’s moon Phobos

JAXA successfully launched H3 rocket No. 10 on 20 October. MMX’s goals and the journey ahead.

AI agents break into more than 100 company sites for about $5,000
Tech news

AI agents break into more than 100 company sites for about $5,000

An investigation by the company NorForge, reported by Reuters on 19 October: what happened and why it matters.

Microsoft announces controls to assess, limit and stop AI agents
Tech news

Microsoft announces controls to assess, limit and stop AI agents

Tools to monitor and stop AI agents working inside a company: what they allow.

Amazon opens TorchNeuron: native PyTorch on its Trainium AI chips
Tech news

Amazon opens TorchNeuron: native PyTorch on its Trainium AI chips

Available in public beta from 20 October, open source (Apache 2.0): what changes.

Macron refuses Laurent Nuñez’s resignation and calls for a new doctrine against rioters
News from France

Macron refuses Laurent Nuñez’s resignation and calls for a new doctrine against rioters

The Élysée announced on 19 October that Macron refuses the Interior Minister’s resignation. A look at the government’s reaction after the violence of

17 October riots: more than 2,000 shops hit according to CCI France, meeting at Bercy
News from France

17 October riots: more than 2,000 shops hit according to CCI France, meeting at Bercy

The damage is put at “hundreds of millions of euros”. On the 19th the government brought together retail and insurance representatives, with no aid me

Saft launches an all-solid-state battery line in Bordeaux, a first in France
News from France

Saft launches an all-solid-state battery line in Bordeaux, a first in France

Saft, a TotalEnergies subsidiary, is starting production of all-solid-state batteries at its Bordeaux plant. The figures are the company’s.

Japan: lawyer Atsumi Harasawa elected mayor of Yokohama, ahead of the resigned former mayor
News from Japan

Japan: lawyer Atsumi Harasawa elected mayor of Yokohama, ahead of the resigned former mayor

Result of the 18 October Yokohama mayoral election, held after the former mayor resigned over accusations of power harassment.

Japan: the consumption tax cut bill enters debate on 20 October
News from Japan

Japan: the consumption tax cut bill enters debate on 20 October

The bill to cut the tax on food products enters debate in the House of Representatives on 20 October. The reactions of the 19th and the Prime Minister

Big US banks block outside AI agents: JPMorgan and Schwab
Tech news

Big US banks block outside AI agents: JPMorgan and Schwab

JPMorgan and Charles Schwab have said they will not allow outside AI agents to log in to accounts with customers’ credentials.

Limoges: town hall destroyed by fire, the prefect denounces a fire “set deliberately”, 19 in custody
News from France

Limoges: town hall destroyed by fire, the prefect denounces a fire “set deliberately”, 19 in custody

On 17 October, Limoges town hall burned late in the day. What the prefect and the mayor say, the known damage and what remains to be established.

Bordeaux on 17 October: 7,000 demonstrators according to the prefecture, 100,000 according to the CGT; looting and fires in the city centre, 23 injured and 55 arrests (provisional)
News from France

Bordeaux on 17 October: 7,000 demonstrators according to the prefecture, 100,000 according to the CGT; looting and fires in the city centre, 23 injured and 55 arrests (provisional)

On 17 October, Bordeaux was one of the cities hit hardest by the violence. Turnout, how it unfolded, damage and authorities’ reactions, with the sourc

17 October mobilisation: 550,000 demonstrators according to the Interior Minister, 800,000 according to organisers, about 400 arrests (provisional)
News from France

17 October mobilisation: 550,000 demonstrators according to the Interior Minister, 800,000 according to organisers, about 400 arrests (provisional)

Why this 17 October day, and the tally the next day (participants, arrests, damage). The number of participants depends on who counts; the arrest tall

Japan: food consumption tax, the ruling side hints at changes in NHK’s televised debate
News from Japan

Japan: food consumption tax, the ruling side hints at changes in NHK’s televised debate

On NHK’s Sunday programme on 18 October, ruling and opposition officials debated. The LDP hinted at amendments. The bill is due to enter discussion in

Japan: Typhoon No. 30 passes near Guam, expected south of Okinawa around 22–23 October
News from Japan

Japan: Typhoon No. 30 passes near Guam, expected south of Okinawa around 22–23 October

Weathernews information (18 October, 9 am) and Japan Meteorological Agency forecasts. The typhoon is “very strong” and could become “violent” between

DeepSeek releases V4.1-Flash-1017: a minor update, under the MIT licence
Tech news

DeepSeek releases V4.1-Flash-1017: a minor update, under the MIT licence

DeepSeek published on Hugging Face an update of V4.1-Flash. According to the model card, reasoning and coding improve; the licence is MIT. The figures

China proposes adding 40 technologies (AI, solar, biomedicine) to the controlled-export list: consultation until 15 November
Tech news

China proposes adding 40 technologies (AI, solar, biomedicine) to the controlled-export list: consultation until 15 November

China’s Ministry of Commerce and Ministry of Science and Technology published on 16 October a draft revision of the list of technologies whose export

Microsoft presents the Maia 300 inference chip: deployment from 2027
Tech news

Microsoft presents the Maia 300 inference chip: deployment from 2027

Microsoft presented Maia 300 on 12 October, the third generation of its AI chip. The figures are the company’s; production deployment begins in 2027.

Nvidia takes stakes in Doctolib and three French start-ups
Tech news

Nvidia takes stakes in Doctolib and three French start-ups

According to AFP, Nvidia announced on 13 October in Paris that it is taking stakes in Doctolib and three French AI start-ups. Amounts are not detailed

IMAPS 2026 in Boston: advanced packaging for AI chips, with many Japanese companies
Tech news

IMAPS 2026 in Boston: advanced packaging for AI chips, with many Japanese companies

An international event devoted to AI chip packaging was held in Boston from 29 September to 1 October. According to JETRO, many Japanese companies and

OpenAI will retire gpt-4o and other older models from its API on 14 January 2027
Tech news

OpenAI will retire gpt-4o and other older models from its API on 14 January 2027

OpenAI announced on 14 October that gpt-4o, gpt-4.1 and other older models will no longer be available in its API from 14 January 2027. It recommends

17 October mobilisation: against the cost of living, different figures from organisers and government
News from France

17 October mobilisation: against the cost of living, different figures from organisers and government

Starting on social media, the day targets the cost of living. The real number of participants is not known at this stage.

2027 budget: the vote on the first part is planned for Tuesday 20 October
News from France

2027 budget: the vote on the first part is planned for Tuesday 20 October

Discussion from 12 to 19 October, solemn vote on the 20th. This is not yet the final adoption of the budget.

Japan: 1% consumption tax on food, the ruling side proposes debate from 20 October
News from Japan

Japan: 1% consumption tax on food, the ruling side proposes debate from 20 October

The government approved the bill on 9 October. Financing remains to be specified and the opposition asks for details.

Japan: Typhoon No. 30 (Champi) expected to become very powerful early next week
News from Japan

Japan: Typhoon No. 30 (Champi) expected to become very powerful early next week

Weather News forecasts from the morning of the 16th, checked on the 17th. The rest of the track remains very uncertain.

Image of a desk where household finances are being worked out
AI-generated illustration
News from France

Pensions: the Assembly rejects the reduced cap on the allowance

Vote of 15 October, checked this morning. A tax rule is not the amount of the pension.

Image of a desk where household finances are being worked out
AI-generated illustration
News from France

Single parents: an 80% tax credit voted in the Assembly

An amendment was adopted on the evening of the 15th. The new rate is not applicable yet.

Image of a passport and travel bag against a Japanese cityscape
AI-generated illustration
News from Japan

Japan: 4.28 million foreign residents, a record

Figures published on 16 October cover the end of June. Residence and tourism are two different notions.

Image of a taxi stopped in a Japanese town
AI-generated illustration
News from Japan

Japan: taxis and buses want to specify refusal in case of harassment

Information from the evening of the 15th, checked this morning. A change to the conditions of carriage is planned.

Bordeaux, Saturday 17 October: gathering planned at 2 pm on cours Victor Hugo
Demonstrations and strikes

Bordeaux, Saturday 17 October: gathering planned at 2 pm on cours Victor Hugo

Place and time still subject to change. Forecast disruption to trams and buses; detailed route not confirmed.

Image of supermarket shelves lined with groceries
AI-generated illustration
News from France

Sugary products: the extended tax clears committee, not yet the law

Biscuits and cereals are part of the debate. A parliamentary stage does not mean a tax already applicable.

Image of a desk where household finances are being worked out
AI-generated illustration
News from France

European budget: the Assembly votes a €30.9 billion contribution

The 14 October vote concerns an article of the 2027 budget, not the final adoption of the whole bill.

Japan: Arata Takebe chosen to succeed Kazuo Yana at Agriculture
News from Japan

Japan: Arata Takebe chosen to succeed Kazuo Yana at Agriculture

The Prime Minister explains her choice on 15 October, after Kazuo Yana’s departure.

Typhoon No. 30 has formed: follow the updated forecasts
News from Japan

Typhoon No. 30 has formed: follow the updated forecasts

The system is now identified as a typhoon. Its formation does not mean a certain arrival in Japan.

Image of a high-school classroom with no pupils
AI-generated illustration
News from France

High-school students: two different tallies for the 13 October demonstrations

161,500 people according to the Interior Ministry, 480,000 according to the organisers. These estimates must be attributed.

Image of a desk where household finances are being worked out
AI-generated illustration
News from France

2027 budget: the motion to reject is set aside, debates continue

236 votes against, 149 for: the motion is rejected. The budget itself is not finally adopted.

Japan: nominal GDP forecast to rank sixth in the world in 2027
News from Japan

Japan: nominal GDP forecast to rank sixth in the world in 2027

A forecast result reported on 14 October, not a ranking already observed. Exchange rates matter.

Japan: Prime Minister says she received explanations from minister Yana
News from Japan

Japan: Prime Minister says she received explanations from minister Yana

Statement in committee on the morning of 14 October. A suspicion is not an established illegality.

Image of a high-school classroom with no pupils
AI-generated illustration
News from France

High-school mobilisation in France: where did it begin and why did it spread?

From missing posts in Créteil to a mobilisation over studies, guidance and inequality: the origins, stages, mechanisms of spread and government respon

Image of a desk where household finances are being worked out
AI-generated illustration
News from France

2027 budget: the National Assembly begins examining revenue today

Examination of revenue begins on 13 October. The bill is not yet a finally adopted budget.

Image of a pharmacy vaccination area and a vaccine
AI-generated illustration
News from France

Flu and Covid-19: the vaccination campaign starts today

The campaign starts on 13 October in mainland France. Here are the points to check at the pharmacy and for reimbursement.

Image of supermarket shelves lined with groceries
AI-generated illustration
News from France

Supermarket cyberattack: a store near Bordeaux named in the latest information

An Intermarché in Gradignan is named among the affected stores. Check your store’s announcements.

Off La Réunion, the French Navy inspects and diverts an oil tanker
News from France

Off La Réunion, the French Navy inspects and diverts an oil tanker

A look back at the 12 October intervention. A false flag is suspected and a judicial investigation continues.

Japan: questions to the Prime Minister and ministers in the budget committee
News from Japan

Japan: questions to the Prime Minister and ministers in the budget committee

The committee sits on 13 October from 9 am, Japan time. A hearing is not the adoption of a law.

Kyushu Shinkansen: service suspended from the first trains
News from Japan

Kyushu Shinkansen: service suspended from the first trains

On 13 October, equipment checks disrupt the Hakata–Kagoshima-Chuo line. Resumption times remain estimates.

Image of supermarket shelves lined with groceries
AI-generated illustration
News from France

Cyberattack on supermarket refrigeration: U, Intermarché and Leclerc hit

Refrigeration equipment was hit at several French chains. Here are the confirmed facts and the points to check before you shop.

Image of a pharmacy vaccination area and a vaccine
AI-generated illustration
News from France

Flu vaccination from 13 October: how to do it at the pharmacy?

In mainland France, the campaign runs from 13 October 2026 to 31 January 2027. Here are the steps at the pharmacy and the costs to check.

North Korea: two launches reported, impact estimated outside Japan’s EEZ
News from Japan

North Korea: two launches reported, impact estimated outside Japan’s EEZ

Japan reports two launches that may be ballistic missiles. The report mentions no damage at this stage.

Japan: traffic jams expected at the end of the long weekend
News from Japan

Japan: traffic jams expected at the end of the long weekend

12 October ends a three-day weekend. A 30 km queue is forecast on the Kan-etsu Expressway.

Image of a high-school classroom with no pupils
AI-generated illustration
News from France

Schools: strike calls on 13 and 15 October

An education union calls for a strike this week. This does not mean all schools will be closed.

Presidential election: Glucksmann wins a primary
News from France

Presidential election: Glucksmann wins a primary

Part of the left has chosen its candidate for the presidential election. The President of the Republic has not been elected.

Fuel aid: check announced for the 12th, applications on the 22nd
News from France

Fuel aid: check announced for the 12th, applications on the 22nd

This aid concerns some workers who use their car for long journeys. Conditions must be checked on the official site.

Bordeaux: ballet from the 12th to the 14th, exhibition from the 16th
Local news

Bordeaux: ballet from the 12th to the 14th, exhibition from the 16th

A ballet to see from tonight and an exhibition that starts on Friday: here are two separate events.

Image of a high-school classroom with no pupils
AI-generated illustration
News from France

High-school mobilisation: a new call for 13 October

According to L’Internaute, a new call to mobilise is planned for Tuesday 13 October. The demands concern education resources, staffing and Parcoursup.

Primary: close of voting announced for 11 October at 6 pm
News from France

Primary: close of voting announced for 11 October at 6 pm

L’Internaute reports the first round closing at 6 pm on 11 October, after an extension linked to a cyberattack. This primary aims to choose a candidat

Sophie Adenot speaks after returning to Earth
News from France

Sophie Adenot speaks after returning to Earth

According to L’Internaute, the French astronaut returned to Earth on 8 October and reached Cologne on 10 October. She spoke of her emotion after about

Temporary return and schemes

Tax-free shopping for a temporary return to Japan: what changes in November 2026

Payment including tax, then refund after a check on leaving the country. The documents needed by Japanese people living abroad and the points to watch

Transport and restrictions

Avenue André-Reinson: road closed on 8 and 9 October

Date: 8 and 9 October 2026. Check the official information for exact times. Place: 11 avenue André-Reinson, Bordeaux. Purpose: traffic ban because of

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