France: Two activist groups to stage separate protests in central Paris Jan. 23

Event

Two groups of activists plan to stage separate protests in central Paris Jan. 23. Union groups will lead a protest denouncing job cuts during the coronavirus pandemic (COVID-19) at the National Assembly building from 1400. In another demonstration, activists protesting against a security law that allegedly contravenes civil liberties will gather at Place du Palais Royal from 1400. Attendance at each event is likely to be in the hundreds. Smaller actions and even counterprotests related to both causes are possible in additional French cities Jan. 23.

Additional police will almost certainly deploy to both protest sites; related security measures will likely prompt localized transport disruptions around the demonstrations. Current COVID-19 measures in France severely restrict public gatherings; police may attempt to disperse protests if demonstrators fail to observe COVID-19 restrictions. Activists seeking to circumvent security cordons could gather in other areas of central Paris.

Isolated clashes between police and protesters are likely, particularly at protests against the security law, as activists associated with the "Yellow Vests" (Gilets Jaunes) anti-government movement regularly attend such actions. Yellow Vest actions have a high propensity to escalate to clashes with security forces. Authorities may resort to riot control measures, including tear gas and water cannon, if activists do not comply with police orders. While bystanders are unlikely to be targeted they could face an indirect threat of physical harm.

Advice

Avoid all protests as a routine security precaution and to mitigate associated disruptions. Heed instructions from security services and leave the area at the first sign of a confrontation. Check public transport schedules and local traffic conditions for disruptions before beginning journeys. Allow extra time for travel in protest-affected areas Jan. 23.