19 Sep 2023 | 08:46 AM UTC
France: Anti-racism groups plan protests nationwide, Sept. 23
Anti-racism groups plan protests in Paris and across France, Sept. 23. Heightened security, disruptions likely.
Event
Anti-racism groups will stage nationwide protests, Sept. 23. Demonstrations are planned in Paris and in over 100 other locations. The largest event is likely to be in Paris, where attendees will gather at the Gare du Nord at 14:30 and then march to Place de la Bastille. The events are being supported by civil society groups, and by the influencial CGT labor union. A complete list of protest events is at the organizer's website here. The United March (Marche Unitaire) movement is denouncing police violence and systemic racism, and calling for improved civil liberties.
Police will likely deploy in significant numbers to monitor the demonstrations. Heightened security, road closures, and localized road travel delays are likely near protest sites. Acts of violence and vandalism are possible in the margins of the official protests.
Context
In late June, France experienced both violent riots and peaceful protests, following the police shooting of a young man, "Nahel", in the Paris suburb of Nanterre.
Advice
Avoid the protests as a routine security precaution. Plan for some travel delays and disruption in the immediate vicinity of the protest sites. Follow local travel and security advice. In the event of violence, withdraw from the area.
