Paris, along with Lyon, Rennes, and Grenoble, is bracing for potential violence before the end of the first electoral round. The Ministry of the Interior has issued warnings about potential outbreaks of violence, causing concern among merchants who are fortifying their businesses with bars and wood, anticipating a possible storm of unrest. Security measures, including patrols by gendarmes in special clothing with combat equipment, reflect the heightened state of emergency in the lead-up to the Olympic Games.
The memory of the 2023 demonstration against retirement reform, which resulted in significant violence and destruction, lingers in the minds of Parisian merchants and authorities alike. Businesses are taking precautions to protect themselves from potential violence, with barricades, armored doors, and boarded-up windows becoming common sights across the city. The specter of past unrest, such as the Yellow Vest protests, looms large, prompting businesses to take proactive measures to safeguard their premises.
In Lyon, businesses that were previously targeted during social movements are taking additional steps to protect themselves. Wooden panels are being installed on ventilation grilles, and extra security measures are being implemented to prevent potential attacks. The atmosphere of tension and uncertainty in the lead-up to the legislative elections has led to a heightened sense of vigilance among business owners and authorities.
Concerns about potential unrest and violence during the election period extend beyond Paris to other major cities like Lyon and Marseille. The authorities are bracing for the possibility of riots, confrontations with law enforcement, and disruptions to public services. Businesses, particularly those located in vulnerable areas, are preparing for the worst and investing in security measures to protect themselves from potential violence.
With anti-Semitism and Islamophobia playing a prominent role in the election campaign, there are fears that tensions may escalate, leading to outbreaks of violence in vulnerable areas. Communities, especially those in the suburbs outside Paris, are taking precautions to ensure their safety and security during this uncertain period. The specter of past riots and civil unrest looms large, prompting businesses and residents to take proactive measures to protect themselves from potential threats.