In France, there is increasing criticism of the police’s actions in the ongoing pension protests in the country. Human rights groups say they are concerned about what they call arbitrary or preventive arrests and excessive use of force.
The French organization Ligue des droits de l’Homme states that “the right to demonstrate is undermined by the disproportionate and dangerous use of force”. Human Rights Watch also says it is concerned about police practices. There are reports that students and passers-by have been detained and that tear gas has been fired at closed places.
Security officials defend the actions of the police. They argue that there is a response to violent rioters and anarchist groups who regularly infiltrate demonstrations to provoke clashes. President Emmanuel Macron condemned the violence on Friday, saying security services had operated “in an exemplary manner”.
In France, demonstrations have been taking place since January against pension reforms, including raising the retirement age. Since the government pushed through the reforms last week, many demonstrations have become disordered. Thursday was the most violent day since the start of the wave of protests. The police arrested more than 450 people. More than 400 officers were injured, according to authorities.
READ ALSO. ANALYSIS. A working week of barely 35 hours and already retired at the age of 62. Why many French people find it inconceivable that this will be touched (+)
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