France: Civil unrest significantly reduced nationwide, although remains possible in coming days /update 7

Event

Protests and widespread incidents of violence in reaction to the June 27 police-involved killing of a teenager near Paris have reduced significantly, as of July 5. Authorities reported that Paris and other urban centers were relatively calm overnight July 3-4 and 4-5. Police announced significant reductions of violent incidents, arrests, and injuries, after a peak on June 30.

Multiple political groups and campaign groups have called for "citizens' marches" July 8. These demonstrations are likely to attract thousands of attendees. The locations and timings of events are not yet known.

Tensions will likely remain high nationwide as authorities prepare for possible rioting in the coming days. Public transport remains disrupted, with bus, tram, and rail services in several major cities suspending or limiting operations. In the Paris region, the transport operator RATP has suspended numerous bus, tram, metro, and RER train lines: details can be found by clicking here.

Authorities will maintain a high security posture nationwide until the civil unrest abates. Initially, the Ministry of the Interior deployed about 2,000 additional police officers in Paris in response to the situation; however, the government has significantly increased its security deployments to 45,000 security personnel nationwide, with 7,000 officers in Paris. Curfews expired as of July 3 in a number of towns in the Paris region and elsewhere across France, however, restrictions may be reintroduced if the security situation deteriorates.

Context

Demonstrations and clashes first broke out in the Paris suburb of Nanterre shortly after reports of a teenager's death emerged, subsequently spreading to several cities elsewhere in the country, with levels of violence quickly intensifying. Numerous incidents of vandalism, arson, and looting have been reported in various urban areas nationwide.

The numbers of arrests and injuries, and the severity of arson attacks all decreased overnight July 1-2 and decreased further again July 2-3. Peaceful demonstrations took place July 3, in front of town halls nationwide, calling for an end to the riots.

Arrests made by the police nationwide peaked on June 30, at over 1,300, and then dropped to 770 on July 1 and dropped again to 160 on July 2. Damage to buildings and property peaked on June 29 at nearly 500 incidents but dropped sharply to around 30 on July 2.

Advice

Exercise increased caution and personal vigilance until the current wave of protests and associated acts of violence abate. Keep away from all demonstrations, as well as any areas where security personnel appear to be deploying. Leave the area at the first sign of a security disturbance; if unable to do so, seek shelter in a secure nongovernmental building until it is safe to depart. Strictly heed the instructions of local authorities. Remain courteous and cooperative if approached and questioned by law enforcement personnel.