Montreal police arrest three after student protest clashes

Montreal police deployed tear gas at times to disperse a student protest in downtown Montreal on Friday, Nov. 13, 2026, and arrested three people following clashes with officers.

Protest and arrests

University and CEGEP students gathered at Victoria Square to protest what they call government austerity measures and student financial insecurity. The demonstration was organized by the Coalition de résistance pour l’unité étudiante syndicale (CRUES), which is calling for a reform of student financial aid, paid internships, and increased funding for institutions of higher education.

After gathering in Victoria Square, protesters walked through downtown Montreal. There were clashes between certain individuals and police after they threw rocks at officers. Several buildings were damaged, including shattered windows at the World Trade building.

SPVM spokesperson Caroline Chèvrefils confirmed that two individuals were arrested for armed assault on a police officer and a third for assault on a police officer. The SPVM also reported eight instances of vandalism involving buildings or vehicles.

Injuries and official response

No members of the public were injured, according to Chèvrefils. One police officer was injured after falling off his bicycle; the spokesperson did not specify whether the fall was accidental or caused by protesters.

Minister of Public Safety Guy Lapointe Jr. and Minister of Higher Education Elsie Lefebvre condemned the acts of violence that occurred during the protest. In a joint statement published on X, they wrote:

"It is unacceptable for anyone to take advantage of this movement to commit acts of vandalism or destruction and, in doing so, jeopardize the sense of security of peaceful protesters."

They added:

"The student movement deserves to be heard and respected. Dialogue and freedom of expression are essential in a democratic society."

Why it matters

The protest capped five days of demonstrations against conditions in post-secondary institutions, government austerity measures, and the cost of living. Students say Quebec’s education ministry has been underfunded for years and that rising tuition and living costs have forced many to work part-time or study part-time, which can disqualify them from government aid programs.

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Sources

• montreal.citynews.ca: 3 people arrested during student protest in Montreal
• ctvnews.ca: Thousands of students protest in Montreal against austerity measures

This article was drafted with AI assistance and checked against the sources above. Company claims are reported as claims. Cover image is AI-generated.