05 May 2017 | 10:12 AM UTC
France: Student protests in Paris May 5 (ongoing)
High school students protest in Paris on April 5 in reaction to presidential election results
Event
Protests by high school students are taking place in Paris as of the morning of Friday, May 5. The students reportedly planned to erect blockades in front of their schools before meeting at Place de la Bastille; media reports indicate the protesters could then march to other places such as Place de la Nation. Spontaneous protests at various other locations are also likely. Violence cannot be ruled out.
Context
Student protests have regularly led to clashes between students and security forces, particularly around barricades erected by demonstrators. The aim of protests is to denounce the "masquerade" of the current electoral process along with a general protest against the success of far-right candidate Marine Le Pen of the Front National in the first round of elections held on April 23.
These protests are taking place in a tense sociopolitical context and under a high terrorist threat. Security forces are on high alert ahead of the second round of voting taking place on Sunday May 7, which will determine whether centrist candidate Emmanuel Macron or Le Pen will become president.
Advice
Individuals present in France are advised to avoid all demonstrations, remain vigilant, and report any suspicious objects or behavior to the relevant authorities.
