France: Pension reform protest scheduled in Paris January 24 /update 13

Event

Several labor unions have called for a protest in Paris on Friday, January 24, to denounce the government's proposed universal pension reform. Participants plan to gather at 11:00 (local time) at Place de la République before heading to Place de la Concorde. Further related protests are to be anticipated in the Paris region and across France on Friday. Labor unions have planned a series of actions that could potentially disrupt refineries and ports across France on Wednesday, January 22 and Thursday, January 23, prior to the protest.

A heightened security presence and transportation disruptions are to be expected along the march route.

Context

Thousands have protested across France in December 2019 to voice their opposition to the planned pension reform scheme. Subsequent ongoing 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, particularly in Paris, are advised to avoid all demonstrations as a precaution, monitor developments to the situation, anticipate transportation disruptions, and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.