The key facts

  • Lecornu instructed prefects to impose partial local curfews from Monday evening; Paris as a whole will not be placed under curfew.
  • A judicial operation has been launched: nearly 200 investigators at the Paris police prefecture are examining photos and videos to identify suspects.
  • From Tuesday, a short-time work scheme and a special fund to support affected businesses will be introduced.

Local curfews from Monday evening

French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu told journalists on Monday, after an interministerial crisis meeting, that he had instructed prefects to impose a number of curfews from this evening in response to violence and looting during protests over the past weekend. According to him, the restrictions will be partial and may be 'very local'. Before determining the measures, the prefects will consult with mayors and business representatives; the aim of the restrictions is to protect people and property.

State of emergency not ruled out

Lecornu said the question of imposing a curfew across the whole of Paris was not on the table: 'It would make no sense.' He did not rule out a state of emergency if necessary, but noted that at this point targeted curfews appear more appropriate. 'My determination to restore order is absolute,' the prime minister said.

Massive judicial operation

The prime minister announced a 'very significant, massive judicial operation' beginning on Monday: nearly 200 investigators at the Paris police prefecture will examine images and video recordings to identify suspects. 'Above all, those who caused damage must pay,' he stressed.

Business support and negotiations

For affected businesses, a short-time work scheme will be introduced from Tuesday, and a special support fund will be created to address cash flow problems. Lecornu called this 'a measure to protect employment.' In addition, he promised negotiations with political parties on the security of campaign events and policing, and with trade unions on protecting demonstrations. 'Many people demonstrated peacefully last Saturday, and this needs to be said again,' the prime minister concluded.