21 Nov 2018 | 09:30 AM UTC
France: “Yellow vest” disruptions lessen November 21 /update 6
“Yellow vest” movement de-escalates in certain regions on November 21; further protests in Paris expected
Event
The nationwide "yellow vest" movement is reportedly de-escalating as of Wednesday, November 21, as participants lift roadblocks in various regions. Disruptive protests continue, however, for a fifth consecutive day in parts of the regions of Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, Bourgogne-Franche-Comté, Bretagne, Grand Est, Nouvelle-Aquitaine, Normandie, Occitanie, Pays de la Loire, and Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur.
Further protests are scheduled in Paris on November 24. Participants have been called to block the streets within the city, using various means (debris, roadblocks, slow-rolling [go-slow] operations, etc.). Until now, disruptions have mostly affected areas outside of cities.
Context
The "yellow vest" movement launched protests on November 17 against rising fuel prices and a planned fuel tax. Hundreds of thousands have engaged in slow-rolling protests to block roads and highways, causing significant traffic disruptions. As of November 21, two people have been killed in traffic incidents and another 552 injured.
The government is planning a tax increase on fuel prices, including gasoline and diesel, beginning on January 1, 2019, to promote environmentally friendly practices.
Advice
Individuals in France are advised to monitor developments to the situation, allow for extra time to reach their destinations, and avoid all protests as a precaution.
