France: “Yellow Vest” protest planned in Paris amid ongoing nationwide strike December 7

Event

"Yellow Vest" protesters have called for protest in Paris, on Saturday, December 7, amid an ongoing nationwide strike affecting the public transportation network. Participants plan to gather at 09:00 (local time) at Place du Bataillon du Pacifique before heading to Porte de Versailles via the Austerlitz train station, Place Denfert -Rochereau, Place de la Catalogne, and Porte de Vanve. Another demonstration, to denounce unemployment, is scheduled to take place as of 12:00 at Place du 18 juin 1940, in the Montparnasse area.

Related protests are possible in other urban centers across France on Saturday, notably in the Paris region, although no specific details have been announced as of Friday, December 6. Security forces may cordon off landmarks and other areas surrounding the demonstrations to prevent acts of violence and vandalism.

A heightened security presence along with localized transportation and business disruptions are anticipated near all demonstration sites. Clashes between security forces and protesters cannot be ruled out.

Information regarding potential interruptions and closures to public transportation services in Paris is available here.

Context

The "Yellow Vest" movement began on November 17, 2018, to protest rising fuel prices and a planned fuel tax. It has since grown to encompass a number of popular grievances against the French government. Some protests have turned violent and acts of vandalism and looting have been reported, although the scale of the protests has diminished since their height in December 2018. Demonstrations have continued despite French government proposals to address protesters' concerns. President Emmanuel Macron announced a series of reforms on April 25, including closing corporate tax loopholes, income tax cuts, linking pensions to inflation by 2020, and reforms to referendum processes, among others.

Advice

Individuals in France, notably in Paris, are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all protests due to the risk of violence, budget extra time to reach their destinations, and adhere to any instructions issued by the local authorities.