Saturday, March 18, 2023:
CAI’s Global Security Operations Center (GSOC) enters its third day of monitoring the protests in Paris, France. Police in Paris have clashed with thousands of protesters after the French government decided to force through pension reforms without a vote in parliament. Crowds converged on Place de la Concorde in response to raising the retirement age from 62 to 64. Over the last two months this plan has sparked heated political debate and violent strikes which have affected travelers and workers in downtown Paris and surrounding areas.
Yesterday, thousands of people came out on the streets of Paris and other French cities to reject the move, singing the national anthem and waving trade union flags. As night fell, protesters clashed with police and a sizable fire was lit in the middle of the Place de la Concorde. With some delay, police with shields and batons fired tear gas and moved in to clear the square. By this morning, 120 people had been arrested.
CAI advises that only essential travel be made into this area. Those moving through the area should remain aware of their surroundings, stay in touch with family or coworkers and limit the use of public transit, taxis, and ride share programs in these areas.
For those employees of those clients utilizing CAI’s GSOC services, please check your text and email services for additional information.
