France: Unions schedule march in Paris December 28 /update 34

Event

Several labor unions have a called for a march in Paris on Saturday, December 28, to denounce the government's pension reform project. Participants plan to gather at 13:00 (local time) at the Gare du Nord station before heading to Chatelet station via Place de la République. Additional protests are possible in the Paris region and across France.

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 related ongoing nationwide strikes have caused significant disruptions across 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, notably in Paris, are advised to closely monitor developments to the situation, anticipate significant transportation and business disruptions, plan alternative routes and budget additional travel time in areas affected by the general strike and protests, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.