France bans face-covering masks at demonstrations
By the AFREEQUE newsroom, based on L’essentiel
The French government has banned Halloween masks that conceal the face at demonstrations, as school pupils, students, trade unions and former “yellow vests” mobilise in defence of public services and purchasing power. The measure comes amid social protests that have spread to several cities, reports Agence France-Presse.
France has banned masks that conceal the face at demonstrations amid social mobilisation marked by violence and looting. The measure comes as school pupils, students, trade unions and former “yellow vests” demonstrate in defence of public services and demand improved purchasing power, reports Agence France-Presse, cited by L’essentiel.
The Paris police prefecture has also imposed a curfew in the areas around Place de la République and Châtelet-Les Halles, from 11pm to 6am on the nights from Saturday to Sunday and Sunday to Monday. The order cites the risk of public disorder linked to a demonstration against the rising cost of living and Halloween gatherings.
The school students’ movement, launched on 18 September to demand the replacement of absent teachers, more resources and the renovation of schools, has spread across the country. A national mobilisation for purchasing power had already led to riots and looting on 17 October.
