France is mobilising approximately 70,000 law enforcement officers across the nation on Saturday as authorities brace for potential unrest during protests concerning the rising cost of living. This decision follows a series of demonstrations last week that escalated into violent confrontations, resulting in fires, vandalism of public buildings, and clashes with law enforcement.

In anticipation of the protests, several prominent museums in Paris, including the Louvre, will remain closed as a precautionary measure. The French Interior Minister, Laurent Nuez, announced that the deployment will include police officers, gendarmes, helicopters, armoured vehicles, and water cannons to ensure public safety.

Elite police units are also set to provide additional security for public buildings, such as city halls, as part of a comprehensive and mobile security strategy. Nuez highlighted the alarming rise in calls for violent actions from radical groups on social media, which have contributed to the heightened security measures.

Participants Expected at Saturday’s Demonstrations

Students, members of the CGT labour union, and activists from the Yellow Vest movement are anticipated to participate in the demonstrations scheduled for Saturday. The Yellow Vest movement, known for its protests against social inequality, gained prominence in 2018 and 2019, and is reportedly rallying again in response to the current economic climate.

Nuez stated that there will be zero tolerance for violence, asserting that law enforcement will adopt a stringent approach towards any individuals engaging in unlawful activities. He warned that those involved in violent acts would face legal repercussions, reinforcing the commitment to maintaining public order during the protests.

In light of the potential unrest, the Culture Ministry has advised all institutions under its jurisdiction to implement necessary measures to protect visitors, staff, and artworks. This includes the closure of several major cultural venues, reflecting the seriousness with which the authorities are treating the situation.

Impact on Art Basel and Public Events

Art Basel Paris, one of the leading contemporary art fairs globally, opened to the public on Friday after initially allowing entry by invitation only for two days. However, the weekend programme has been cancelled due to concerns over possible unrest, leading to a significant alteration in the event’s schedule.

The fair, featuring exhibitions from 211 international galleries at the Grand Palais, has prioritised the safety of all participants and attendees. Organisers expressed that the decision to cancel the weekend activities was not made lightly but was necessary given the current circumstances.

Art collector Saloni Doshi, who travelled from India to attend the fair, expressed her concerns after witnessing chaotic scenes during last week’s protests. She received inquiries from friends about safety in Paris and supported the organisers’ decision to close the fair, reflecting a broader sentiment among attendees and gallery owners regarding the need for caution.

Gallery owners Antoine Donzeaud and Elisa Rigoulet echoed this sentiment, describing the decision as reasonable and in alignment with the urgent social demands currently unfolding in France. As the nation prepares for the protests, the combination of heightened security and the closure of cultural institutions underscores the gravity of the situation.

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