France introduced local curfews on Monday, October 19, following a weekend of violence and looting, as Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu announced measures to restore order and help affected businesses.
Paris police restricted access to Place de la République and Les Halles from 11pm on Monday until 6am on Tuesday, local time. The Associated Press reported that gatherings in the affected areas were banned from 8pm. Separate overnight restrictions for under-18s were also announced in several northern cities, including Lille.
Speaking after a government crisis meeting, Lecornu said restrictions should be targeted at affected locations rather than imposed across the entire capital. He said a state of emergency remained an option if necessary, but local curfews were more suited to the situation at that stage.
The government also outlined support for businesses damaged during the unrest. Lecornu said officials were working on a dedicated support fund and faster insurance processes to help traders reopen and protect jobs.
Reuters reported that mayors of major French cities had demanded explanations over the preparation of security forces. The weekend disturbances followed weeks of student demonstrations and added pressure on a government already facing economic and debt challenges.
The measures announced on Monday were geographically limited. They did not amount to a nationwide curfew or a blanket restriction across Paris.
Sources: French government; Associated Press; Reuters via Internazionale.
