France is on strike. Actions took place across the country against the scandalous security law. In a matter of hours, they turned into riots. Hundreds of people were injured, dozens were detained.
In the center of Paris, shards of glass, set fire to barricades, burnt-out cars are everywhere – that is what left behind those who are dissatisfied with the new law on security.
The action quickly grew from a peaceful demonstration to riots. The activists began to launch firecrackers at the police, who responded with tear gas. There was no breath in the Place de la Bastille – the air was filled with the smell of burning and tear gas.
The police did not stand on ceremony with the protesters. They dragged me along the cobblestones, beat me with clubs. Dozens of people were detained. Throughout the country, according to the Ministry of Internal Affairs, 133 thousand people took part in the protests.
In Bordeaux, protesters decided to take advantage of the situation and engage in looting. They smashed the windows of the largest supermarket. When the police decided to intervene and disperse the protesters, a fire started.
The scandalous law “On global security” became the reason for the protests. According to it, the French can be banned from filming the faces of police officers on a phone or camera. If the footage – even such as from these protests – leaks into the network, the author faces a sentence and a fine of 45 thousand euros.
The former president of the Fifth Republic had to intervene. “When the text hits the mind and splits the society, when it can provoke violence, it must be withdrawn. The police must act in accordance with the law of the republic,” François Hollande said.
In Paris, thousands of protesters are demanding freedom, chanting “Liberté”. They agree on one thing: the bill in its current form is a gross violation of the foundations of France.
“This law marks the end of individual and collective freedoms – the foundations of France,” said Miriam Eckert, assistant to former presidential candidate Philippe Poutoux.
People intend to fight to the end for their freedoms. The protests are promised to be made indefinite until the law is canceled. In the final reading, the French Senate is to consider it in January.
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