26 Dec 2018 | 09:33 AM UTC
France: “Yellow vest” protests in Paris December 31 /update 9
“Yellow vest” movement to hold protest in Paris on December 31; associated disruptions expected
Event
The "yellow vest" movement in France plans to hold further protests in the capital, Paris, on Monday, December 31. Participants will gather from 15:00 (local time) on Avenue des Champs-Elysées. Localized transportation disruptions and a heightened security presence are expected. Clashes between protesters and police forces cannot be ruled out.
Related demonstrations took place nationwide on December 22, resulting in minor skirmishes with police forces. Protesters also erected roadblocks at the border with Spain, Italy and Germany. Further disruptive actions cannot be ruled out.
Context
The "yellow vest" movement began on November 17 to protest rising fuel prices and a planned fuel tax, and has since grown to encompass a number of popular grievances against the French government; some protests have turned violent and acts of vandalism and looting have been reported. The government had previously announced a tax increase on fuel prices, including gasoline and diesel, beginning on January 1, 2019, to promote environmentally-friendly practices. Although the government announced the withdrawal of the carbon tax project from the 2019 budget on December 5, protests have continued.
Advice
Individuals located in France are advised to follow all instructions issued by local authorities, avoid all protests due to the risk of violence, and allow for extra time to reach their destinations.
