26 Jun 2024 | 02:42 PM UTC
France: Activists to stage demonstrations nationwide through early July amid French elections /update 4
Activists to protest across France through early July against right-wing parties in upcoming French elections June 29-30, July 6-7.
Political activists plan to continue to protest across France through early July during the national elections held in two turns on June 29-30 and July 6-7. Protesters aim to show support or oppose participating parties. Most rallies are organized to oppose the rise of far-right politics in French elections. However, some events could be organized to support right-wing parties in the upcoming elections. Further major demonstrations are likely to occur following the final results of national elections, July 7-8.
Protests will be held in several major cities, likely until the end of the electoral period, denouncing the rise of right-wing parties in French politics. Major demonstrations will occur on June 27-29 in the following cities:
Brest: Participants will gather at Place de la Liberte from 11:00 on June 27.
Le Havre: Participants will gather at Franklin Street from 14:00 on June 29.
Marseille: Participants will gather at the Felix Baret Square from 11:00 on June 27.
Paris: Participants will gather at Place de la Republique from 18:00 on June 27.
Rennes: Participants will gather at Esplanade Charles de Gaulle from 17:30 on June 27.
Previous demonstrations have drawn large crowds; around 250,000 participants were reported across France on June 15. Similar numbers are likely to occur in the coming demonstrations. Some participants later clashed with police before being dispersed with tear gas and stun grenades. Further related demonstrations will likely occur in France's major cities over the coming days, the largest of which will likely be in Paris. 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.
French President Emmanuel Macron called for snap elections to be held June 29-30 and July 6-7 following the release of the electoral results of EU elections, held on June 6-9, which showed an increase in support for the National Rally (Rassemblement National, RN) party. President Macron aims to hold 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.
