France: Protests planned in Paris April 29-30 and May 1

Event

Protests are planned in Paris over the weekend from April 29 to May 1. On Saturday, April 29, a march called "World March for Cannabis" will take place at Place de la Bastille at 13:30 (local time). The same day, a protest is planned at 14:00 at Place de la République in opposition to corruption, austerity, and the National Front (FN) party. The two protests are likely to merge into one. On Sunday, April 30, a similar demonstration against corruption, austerity, and the FN party, will take place at 15:00 at Place de la République.

On Monday, May 1, a nationwide protest has been organized to call for workers' rights. This protest will gather all major worker unions along with anti-fascism groups. The protest is also against the FN party. In Paris, the protest will start from Place de la République at 14:30.

A runoff round between far-right candidate Marine Le Pen and centrist candidate Emmanuel Macron will be held on Sunday, May 7. More protests are expected in the coming weeks, both before and after the second round of presidential elections.

Context

These protests take place in a tense sociopolitical context and under a high terrorist threat. Security forces are on high alert ahead of the second round of voting planned for May 7.

The May 1 protests were originally organized by anarchist groups. Protests could turn violent due partially to the expected presence of the "Black Bloc" (anarchists).

Advice

Individuals present in France are advised to avoid all demonstrations, remain vigilant, and report any suspicious objects or behavior to the relevant authorities.