Politics
Paris: The French government has decided to tighten security following violent incidents during protests against inflation and the rising cost of living.
Paris: The French government has decided to tighten security following violent incidents during protests against inflation and the rising cost of living. French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu has announced the deployment of a large number of police officers ahead of demonstrations scheduled for next Saturday.
According to the AFP news agency, the prime minister acknowledged while answering lawmakers’ questions in parliament that security arrangements had been inadequate to handle last week’s riots. He accused far-left extremist groups of planning to create a situation resembling an insurrection during the protests. Last week, nationwide demonstrations were held across France against inflation and rising living costs, with tensions escalating in several locations. Reports emerged from various cities of shops being looted, clashes between police and protesters, and public buildings being set on fire.
In response to the situation, several countries, including the United States, China and Germany, issued travel advisories for their citizens in France. French authorities also imposed limited nighttime restrictions in Paris and several other cities, while indicating that similar measures could be extended to additional areas if necessary. Public gatherings were restricted at several key locations in Paris, and police temporarily prohibited people from carrying petrol and gas canisters or bottles.
Meanwhile, violent incidents also occurred in Italy during protests against fuel prices. Authorities are preparing to deploy 500 troops in Milan to maintain law and order. Several police officers were injured during the recent unrest, while numerous protesters were detained.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said that protesting was a citizens’ right, but damaging public property and causing destruction in cities could not be tolerated. Her government is also considering tightening laws concerning the detention of underage protesters and the legal responsibilities of their parents. Violence during demonstrations in France and Italy has heightened concerns about inflation, law and order, and growing public discontent. French authorities are now preparing additional security measures ahead of next week’s protests.
