03 Mar 2020 | 06:36 AM UTC
France: Unions plan several pension-related demonstrations March 3-31 /update 20
Labor unions are calling for several pension-related demonstrations nationwide between March 3-31, including in Paris; heightened security presence and localized transportation disruptions expected
Event
Several labor unions are planning demonstrations in Paris and a nationwide strike between Tuesday, March 3, through Tuesday, March 31. On March 3, participants plan to gather at 13:30 (local time) at Place de la République, before marching to Place de la Concorde. Supporters are planning to protest at 12:00 at Place de la Lachambeaudie on Thursday, March 5, and Friday, March 6. To commemorate International Women's Day on Sunday, March 8, participants are scheduled to meet at 14:00 at Place d'Italie and then march to Place de la République. Lastly, unions have called for an inter-professional nationwide strike and associated protests on Tuesday, March 31. However, organizers did not immediately announce exact meeting times or locations for demonstrations on March 31.
A heightened security presence and localized transportation disruptions are expected near any protest or demonstration. Business disruptions are anticipated throughout the country, and particularly in Paris, during the work stoppage.
Context
Thousands have participated in protests across France since December 2019 to voice their opposition to President Emmanuel Macron's planned pension reform scheme. Subsequent nationwide strikes have caused significant disruptions to all forms of transportation. Strikes may continue for an indefinite period if the government does not abandon its proposed pension reform plan.
Advice
Individuals in France, and particularly in Paris, are advised to monitor developments to the situation, anticipate transportation and business disruptions, and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.
