12 Dec 2019 | 06:15 AM UTC
France: Pension-related protests due in Paris amid strike December 12, 17 /update 4
Unions and civil society groups plan protests in Paris on December 12, 17, to denounce proposed pension reforms; heightened security measures and transportation disruptions expected
Event
Several civil society groups and labor unions have called for protests in Paris on Thursday, December 12, and Tuesday, December 17, to denounce the government's proposed universal pension reform. On Thursday, participants plan to gather from 14:00 (local time) at Place de la Nation, and then march to République. On Tuesday, protesters are due to meet at 13:30 at Place de le République.
State-owned public transport operator RATP confirmed that the ongoing strike action by unions representing staff at RATP is expected to continue through Thursday, for an eighth consecutive day. As such, public transportation in Paris is expected to be significantly impacted on Thursday, and RATP officials have advised travelers to seek alternatives modes of transport. The strike is expected to continue to impact national railway operations on Thursday, including TGV, TER, and RER trains. International rail operators Eurostar, Thalys, and Lyria have cancelled all or most of their services through Friday, December 13. Widespread transportation disruptions - including transportation delays, cancelations, and crowded conditions - and increased demand for alternative means of transportation are to be expected during the strike period.
A heightened security presence and localized transportation disruptions are expected near all protest sites and along all march routes.
Context
Over 500,000 people protested across France on Thursday, December 5, to vocalize their opposition to the planned pension scheme. Subsequent ongoing nationwide strikes have caused significant disruptions to all forms of transportation. Strikes may continue for an undetermined time if the government does not abandon its proposed pension reform plan.
Advice
Individuals in Paris and across France are advised to closely monitor developments to the situation, anticipate significant transportation disruptions, plan alternative routes and budget additional travel time in areas affected by the general strike, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.
