France: Government warns against holding roadblocks Nov. 17 /update 1

Event

The French government has warned that police have been advised to break up any roadblocks that completely block traffic during the nationwide protests set to take place on Saturday, November 17. Clashes between demonstrators and police are thus possible.

Nationwide demonstrations denouncing rising fuel prices and a planned fuel tax are expected across France. Organizers of the so-called "yellow vest" movement had called on participants to engage in slow-rolling protests (go-slows) to block roads and highways. Significant traffic disruptions in the vicinity of demonstrations are to be anticipated throughout the day despite the government warning. Blockades are expected on roads around major urban centers - including Paris, Lyon, Nantes, and Bordeaux - as well as on main highways, such as A8, A5, A6, A9, and A7. Actions are anticipated to be mostly concentrated around urban areas, rather than within the cities themselves.

Associated demonstrations are also expected in Belgium on the same day.

Context

The government is planning a tax increase on fuel prices, including gasoline and diesel, beginning on January 1, 2019, to promote environmentally friendly practices.

Advice

Individuals in France and Belgium are advised to monitor developments to the situation, allow for extra time to reach their destinations, and avoid all protests as a precaution.