France Bans Some Protests After Riots: AP

France’s prime minister has announced a ban on some protests after repeated and violent clashes in several locations, including the Champs-Elysees Avenue in Paris. France has been under siege by yellow-vest protests for four months and Prime Minister Edouard Philippe announced the ban after “rioters set life-threatening fires, ransacked luxury stores and attacked police around the Champs-Elysees.” French leaders also shifted security strategy, allowing police to employ stricter controls and surveillance. The stated goals of the yellow-vest protesters include reduced taxes and support for workers, but another target for some may be France’s social welfare programs and even successful businesses and livelihoods. The senseless property destruction and violence erode public support for the protesters’ causes. “The Paris region’s Chamber of Commerce said 91 businesses suffered consequences from Saturday’s riot at the Champs-Elysees, 80 percent of which were severely damaged,” reports Associated Press. In 2016, France was ranked as spending more than any other country on social welfare. The French Parliament has approved legislation requiring protesters to pay for damages and prevent concealed faces. France still allows peaceful and authorized protests. – YaleGlobal