French President Emmanuel Macron bans illegitimate protests as curfews take effect
In response to escalating violence, French President Emmanuel Macron has prohibited illegitimate protests and imposed curfews as clashes erupt across France. Businesses in Paris are reinforcing their storefronts in anticipation of further unrest. Notably, the disturbances have led to the cancellation of a fan event for Steelers supporters ahead of an NFL game.
This past Saturday, many tourists found themselves turned away from the Louvre as iconic museums in Paris remained closed, raising concerns about possible renewed violence after previous riots devastated parts of the country.
According to reports, major sites like the Louvre, Musée d’Orsay, Picasso Museum, and Grand Palais were all shut down as authorities braced for another weekend filled with potentially violent demonstrations.
Curiously, visitors gathered at the Louvre’s gates, noticing a sign announcing its temporary closure.
The museum, famed for housing the “Mona Lisa,” is among several major attractions that were closed due to fears of protests turning violent.
French officials have prepared to deploy around 70,000 law enforcement personnel throughout the nation, bolstered by helicopters and armored vehicles.
The closures occurred as protests unfolded across France on Saturday, prompting police to redirect the main Paris demonstration away from the city center to reduce the risk of violence.
Shop owners across Paris were seen boarding up their stores while the police stationed themselves beneath the Arc de Triomphe, readying for another round of protests.
Additionally, the closures affected Art Basel Paris, a significant international art fair held at the Grand Palais, which had to cancel its weekend events due to security concerns.
This heightened security followed a weekend of riots that left around 3,000 businesses damaged or looted.
Earlier in the week, the Louvre faced closures due to student protests blocking access to the site, resulting in frustrated tourists being turned away.
One Dutch couple voiced their disappointment, describing the situation as “shameful” and expressing that it reflects badly on Paris.
The U.S. Embassy in France has advised American travelers to steer clear of the violent protests, which have triggered curfews and caused concerns about disruptions to travel.
The embassy reported that several cities are under partial curfews, and restrictions may intensify.
Travelers are warned to avoid known protest hotspots in Paris, including Place de la République, Place de la Bastille, and other major streets often used for demonstrations.
