France: Pension reform protest scheduled in Paris January 23, 24 /update 14

Event

Several labor unions have called for additional protests in Paris on Thursday, January 23, and Friday, January 24, to denounce the government's proposed universal pension reform. 

On Thursday, participants plan to gather at 18:00 (local time) at Place de la Nation before marching towards Place de la République via Avenue de la République and Avenue Philippe Auguste.

On Friday, 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.

Unions have also planned a series of actions that could potentially cause significant disruptions to public transportation in Paris and across France on Friday, January 24, though RATP and SNCF transport companies have not yet confirmed the level of disruption.

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.