01 May 2018 | 02:45 PM UTC
France: Violent protests break out in Paris May 1 /update 1
Violent protests break out in Paris on International Workers' Day May 1; avoid all protests and anticipate transportation disruptions
Event
Violent protests broke out in Paris on Tuesday, May 1. An estimated 1200 far-left and anti-capitalist protesters rallied around the Austerlitz bridge, between the Gare de Lyon and the Gare d'Austerlitz train stations. According to local sources, the protesters have damaged several buildings and have thrown Molotov cocktails into a McDonald's restaurant on Boulevard de l'Hôpital at approximately 16:00 (local time). Clashes between security forces and the far-left protesters have been reported; riot police officers have arrived on scene to disperse the protest. Significant transportation disruptions are expected in the vicinity of the protest.
In addition, political, labor, and other non-governmental groups have staged rallies and peaceful marches throughout Paris to celebrate International Workers' Day, leading to traffic disruptions throughout the city.
Context
International Workers' Day is celebrated annually in countries around the world. It is closely associated with international labor, socialist, and communist movements.
Advice
Individuals present in Paris are advised to avoid all protests and to allow for extra time to reach destinations in the vicinity of any demonstrations.
