Students in France are currently protesting and it’s something of a crisis, but is it still okay to visit the country? Read on to find out more.
What is Happening?
The trouble started on September 21 in the Créteil area, a Paris suburb, but it spread nationwide. High school and university students are protesting teacher shortages, overcrowded classrooms, crumbling facilities, and long school days.
The protests became ugly, and the government called it “urban violence” with fires, road blockades, and clashes with police. So far, authorities have made around 5,000 arrests, and roughly 85 percent of those detained are minors. One teenager lost a hand in a grenade blast during a clash.
A Third Stage of Protests
October 6, which has been termed “Act III,” involves a major nationwide day of protest, and organizers planned demonstrations in several cities, including Paris, Lyon, Marseille, Toulouse, and Bordeaux.
Travelers from the USA should note that the US Embassy issued a demonstration alert, advising travelers to avoid areas around protests, noting that past ones turned violent.
Protests Intensify
Reportedly, hundreds of schools are closed, and clearly, it’s more than just a bunch of kids skipping class. In fact, if you travel through France this week, there are some things you should take into account, including the fact that there has been damage done to infrastructure.
The BBC reported that French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu said his government is taking further steps to “address the difficulties faced by high school students and educational staff,” But he also “said the government is accelerating the review of its “vandal-pays” bill to ensure that people responsible for damage bear the cost of their actions.”
Escalating Tensions
According to Al Jazeera, “Government spokesperson Maud Bregeon told CNews television on Monday that the priority was to “restore order.” And the outlet confirmed that “The Education Ministry said 589 schools had been disrupted on Monday.”
The protests are impacting French travel. According to the US Embassy’s Demonstration Alert, “continued student protests across France” led officials to warn travelers to “avoid areas around protests and demonstrations” because previous gatherings “have turned violent.” Observers expect protests to continue into next week.
Transport Disruptions
Blockades can cause issues with transport, and some barricades were set up near schools and at major intersections, so self-drive travelers and buses can be affected by long delays, and in some areas, public transport has been suspended.
While flights haven’t been canceled because of the unrest, you might experience delays near or on airport access roads. It’s worth checking your apps before you make final travel plans, especially if your trip to France involves taking city buses or trams.
Calls to Stop the Violence
Travelers aren’t the only ones watching the situation and Amnesty International addressed the situation, saying that “French authorities must de-escalate tensions during student protests.” It also should be noted that “the number of minor arrests continues to climb.”
Safety Precautions
Places like Paris and Lyon have a heavy police presence right now. If you encounter police activity, demonstrations, or large crowds, it’s best to move away from the area.
It isn’t advisable to try and take photos of the protests or join onlookers in case of violent outbreaks.
Keep your phone charged, stay informed, and keep an eye on local news sites and official government feeds if you’re traveling through urban centers.
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