Simon Bourtembourg, edited by Laura Laplaud 08h54, March 25, 2023

Before a new mobilization against the pension reform on Tuesday, fears about the radicalization of the movement are felt. Last Thursday, the surroundings of the Place de l'Opéra were punctuated by violence. Unlike Bastille or République, the merchants of this district are not used to demonstrations.

A week after the adoption of the pension reform, the protest does not weaken. After Thursday's very strong mobilization, the unions intend to keep up the pressure. A new day of mobilization is organized next Tuesday. The latest rallies have been punctuated by violence, as in Paris where more than 900 fires were lit Thursday night. Some fear a radicalization of the movement, especially the merchants of the Opera district, unaccustomed to the demonstrations.

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The Opera district, a theatre of violence

Facades blackened by flames, charred garbage cans and tagged shop windows... The Place de l'Opéra still bears the scars of clashes between demonstrators and the police. The 9th arrondissement of Paris has become a theatre of violence. "Everything burned, the merchandise melted... This is the first time this has happened to me. Usually, the demonstrations do not end here so we are a little spared. We don't know how long it will last, will they put back a new kiosk? Are they going to do the same thing to us again?" asks Nathalie, manager of a kiosk for ten years.

Shopkeepers' fear

Opposite, Stéphane's jewelry store was vandalized. The windows were broken and several luxury watches were stolen. The fiftieth anniversary admits to having been taken aback. "It has already been a gathering place at the time of the yellow vests. Now fingers crossed. Obviously, I wish that wasn't the case for the future." A fear shared by all, that of seeing the Opera district become a strong place of protest in Paris.

On Friday, the IGPN was seized after threats and intimidation by Brav-M police officers against young demonstrators in Paris. The prefect of police Laurent Nuñez denounced unacceptable remarks that can be heard in an audio recording during police custody.