10 Jun 2024 | 07:30 PM UTC
France: Activists stage demonstrations across country June 10 to protest electoral results /update 1
Activists stage demonstrations across France June 10 to protest increase in support for right-wing parties in recent European elections.
Political activists have participated in planned and unannounced rallies across France on June 10 in response to the results of the European elections that were held in the country June 9. Late on June 9, French President Emmanuel Macron called for snap elections following the release of the electoral results, which showed an increase in support for the National Rally (Rassemblement National, RN) party. Protests held in several major cities since the release of the election results have denounced the rise of right-wing parties in French politics. The following demonstrations were slated to be among the largest such rallies organized on June 10:
Brest: Demonstrators were scheduled to gather from 18:00 at Freedom Square.
Bayonne: Demonstrators were scheduled to gather from 19:00 at Freedom Square.
Paris: Demonstrators were scheduled to gather from 20:00 at Republic Square.
Further related demonstrations will likely occur in France's major cities over the coming days. Counterdemonstrations are possible.
Authorities will likely deploy an increased security presence to the sites of any large demonstrations that materialize. Transport disruptions are likely in areas that are subject to protest activity. Clashes between police and protesters, as well as between supporters of rival political groups, cannot be ruled out.
Avoid all demonstrations as a standard precaution. Allow additional time if traveling through urban centers where demonstrations may occur. Strictly heed all instructions from law enforcement officers. Immediately depart the area at the first sign of any security disturbance.
EU elections were held in Europe June 6-9; the early results were published late on June 9, highlighting a general increase in votes for RN in France. President Macron aims to hold snap elections to reconfirm his role and his party as the leading political force in France; however, such snap elections could instead undermine Macron's role as president and impact European politics, prompting further protest activity.
