The Culture Ministry urged institutions under its supervision to take measures to ensure visitor safety, protect staff and preserve artworks amid concerns over potential unrest, Anadolu Agency reported.
Authorities are strengthening security ahead of nationwide protests scheduled for October 24. Jean-Didier Berger, France’s minister delegate to the Interior Ministry, told BFMTV that security forces would maintain a “maximum level of vigilance.”
***
Security deployments are expected to be 20% higher than during demonstrations on October 17, Berger said. Leave has been canceled and personnel recalled, while Sentinelle military forces and specialist police units, including the GIGN and RAID, are also due to be deployed.
President Emmanuel Macron said demonstrations not organised by trade unions would be banned in the coming days, particularly over the weekend, “wherever possible.” Regional prefects will review requests submitted by unions.
Authorities have already banned demonstrations across Lyon and in central Toulon for Saturday. Shopkeepers have also been urged to secure their premises and remove objects that could be used to cause damage.
The measures follow protests held nationwide last weekend by Yellow Vest demonstrators and students over the cost of living and fuel prices. Clashes and damage to businesses and public buildings prompted local authorities to impose curfews in some areas.
Trade unions have also called a nationwide strike and day of protests for November 5.
