France: Protesters denouncing pension reform stage demonstration in Rennes, May 23

Event

Multiple labor unions lead protest against pension reform in Rennes, France, May 23. Several hundred attendees gathered in the Place de Bretagne and are marching through the city to denounce the government's policies. The event is smaller than those on the recent nationwide and general strike days; however, disruptions will likely continue throughout the day.

Authorities have deployed an increased security presence. The march route will likely follow major roads in the city, resulting in localized traffic disruptions. Clashes between activists and security services cannot be ruled out; riot police may use tear gas or similar measures to disperse unruly crowds.

Context

The government's pension reform raises the retirement age from 62 to 64 and is a landmark policy of President Emmanuel Macron. Labor unions and opposition parties have led 13 days of national general strikes since Jan. 19. Hundreds of major demonstrations across the country have accompanied the industrial action.

The demonstrations have become increasingly intense and frequently violent after the president invoked Article 49.3 of the French Constitution, enabling the government to pass the pension reform without requiring a vote in the National Assembly. On April 14, the Constitutional Council partially approved the pension reform plan, after which the president signed the increased pension age into law.

Advice

Avoid all demonstrations as a routine security precaution and to mitigate personal exposure to any associated disruptions. Allow extra time for travel. Heed instructions from local authorities and leave the area at the first sign of a confrontation.