What happened
French authorities have imposed overnight curfews and restrictions on public gatherings in a bid to curb demonstrations over living costs and education that have escalated into widespread violence. The crackdown affects parts of Paris, Lyon, Marseille, Nice and several northern towns. Some measures apply specifically to minors, while others completely prohibit demonstrations or gatherings.
Who said what
Emmanuel Macron has condemned the violence that took place over the weekend while also acknowledging protesters’ grievances. “Those who destroyed must pay,” said the French president, promising further discussions on possible responses. Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez admitted that the authorities had underestimated the scale of the unrest and offered to resign, but Macron has rejected the idea that he himself should stand down.
Still, “ferocious criticism from all sides underlines Macron’s isolation”, said Jon Henley in The Guardian. The French leader has “compounded the impression of arrogance with strategic errors – and the consequences could be profound”. For one thing, France is now “bracing for the return of the Yellow Vests”, said Grégoire Sauvage on France 24.
But the riots could affect the UK, too, said Daniel Johnson in The Telegraph. “As Europe burns, Rejoiner dreams are going up in smoke.” The “chaos across the Continent is blowing apart Andy Burnham’s push to reverse the 2016 referendum”.
What next?
The French government faces pressure to address the high level of public anger ahead of next spring’s presidential election. Similar demonstrations and unrest have spread to Italy, Belgium and other European countries, raising concerns about a wider regional backlash over living costs and public services. |
