France: Motorcycle activists to demonstrate nationwide April 13-14

Motorcycle activists affiliated with the Federation of Angry French Bikers (Federation Francaise des Motards en Colere, FFMC) plan to protest across France on April 13-14. The purpose of the demonstrations is to denounce new regulations mandating technical inspections for motorized two-wheeled vehicles. It is unknown how many participants may attend; however, organizers in several locations estimated 1,000 or more participants at their local events. Details of known events include:

• Lyon: Protest at Place Bellecour from 13:30 April 13.

• Marseille: Protest at Le Dome on Avenue de Saint-Just from 14:00 April 14.

• Montpellier: Protest at Zenith Sud on Avenue Albert Einstein from 13:30 April 13.

• Paris: Protest at Porte Dauphine on Avenue Foch from 14:00 April 13.

• Toulouse: Participants will gather at the Parc de Sesquieres parking lot off Allee des Foulques from 14:00 April 13 before proceeding to Stadium de Toulouse.

Heightened security and localized transport disruptions are likely near all protest sites. Participants will probably conduct slow-go protests near demonstration sites and may move to major motorways, particularly near city centers. Confrontations between demonstrators and law enforcement officers or frustrated motorists, potentially escalating to clashes, are possible.