AI Image
France's Macron tightens curbs on protests, blaming hard left for unrest
Reuters • • world
Key Points:
- French President Emmanuel Macron announced a ban on "illegitimate" protests in the coming days, attributing recent riots and looting to "seditious" ultra-left groups aiming to destabilize the Republic.
- While demonstrations organized by trade unions will be permitted, authorities may redirect their routes to protect businesses, with all protests in Lyon banned ahead of a potentially volatile weekend.
- Various groups, including the student union UNEF and the Yellow Vest movement, have planned rallies despite bans, prompting heightened security measures and business precautions, especially in Paris.
- The unrest, sparked by widespread public anger over rising energy costs and declining public services, has led to curfews and arrests, including for an arson attack on Limoges city hall.
- Investor concerns were reflected in French 10-year government bond yields surpassing those of US Treasuries for the first time since 2013, underscoring economic unease amid the turmoil.
