Curfews imposed after a weekend of violence
Authorities in France have ordered overnight curfews in parts of Paris and Nice after riots swept the country over the weekend. Several other French cities have also adopted partial restrictions, according to reports. The measures are intended to prevent further disorder during the night hours, and police in the Paris area issued a curfew covering certain districts to try to curb additional unrest.[S1][S2][S3][S4][S5][S6][S7][S8]
The unrest spread beyond France's borders in the perception of some observers, with protests reported in parts of Europe. Neighbouring countries have been watching the situation with concern, and several of them are dealing with their own cost-of-living demonstrations.[S1][S8]
A political blame game takes shape
The violence has shaken France and set off a fierce argument over responsibility. Questions are being raised about whether the government failed on security, whether the anti-capitalist left encouraged the disorder, and whether the anti-immigration right can use Saturday's riots to promote a law-and-order and closed-borders message. These questions and accusations are being amplified as the country heads toward a hotly contested presidential election.[S1]
A sense of being left behind is widespread among the French public. From their perspective, the nation's political groupings seem to be exploiting the unrest in the streets as a way to gain political advantage. Meanwhile, everyday residents are anxious about security, the quality of public services, and when the next large-scale protest might take place.[S1]
