France: “Yellow vest” protests planned for January 19 /update 17

Event

"Yellow vest" protesters have announced additional demonstrations across France scheduled for Saturday, January 19. Protesters are expected to demonstrate in Paris, including at Place de la Bastille at 9:00 (local time), l'Esplanade des Invalides at 10:00, at the Hôtel de Ville, Tolbiac metro, and the Champs-Élysées at 11:00, and at Place de la République at 13:30. Smaller gatherings are also possible throughout the city. 

Moreover, "Yellow vests" rallies are planned in Lyon beginning at 10:00 in front of the Credit Mutuel bank at Place Bellecour and Rue de la Barre, at 14:00 at Place Bellecour, and on Rue de la République at 16:00. An additional demonstration will also take place in Lille from 13:30 at Place de la République.

A heightened security presence is expected in major urban areas throughout France. Localized transportation and business disruptions in the vicinity of protests are also likely. Clashes between security forces and protesters cannot be ruled out.

Context

The "yellow vest" movement began on November 17 to protest rising fuel prices and a planned fuel tax, and has since grown to encompass a number of popular grievances against the French government; some protests have turned violent and acts of vandalism and looting have been reported. The government had previously announced a tax increase on fuel prices, including gasoline and diesel, beginning on January 1, 2019, to promote environmentally friendly practices. Although the government announced the withdrawal of the carbon tax project from the 2019 budget on December 5, protests have continued.

Advice

Individuals in France are advised to follow all instructions issued by local authorities, avoid all protests due to the risk of violence, allow for extra time to reach their destinations, and adhere to any instructions issued by the local authorities.