Editor: You can also read our full analysis of what has been happening in the streets of Paris and the politics that created the situation.
As France enters its third week of riots in response to President Emmanuel Macron’s tax hikes, the world has been exposed – mostly through social media – to scenes of violence and destruction not witnessed outside of war zones for many a decade. The gilets jaunes (yellow vests) protestors are engaged in a running street battle with the French authorities that shows no sign of abating.
Liberty Nation presents a selection of pictures and videos that highlight not only the sweeping power of a people enraged but also the brutality of the authoritarian reaction.
The Protest Begins
This first section shows the early days of the riots where protestors gathered and marched demanding that Macron repeal his decision. Streets barricaded, and vehicles torched.
Brutality
Here you can see the brutality of an authoritarian regime. In scenes reminiscent of the Rodney King travesty, we see what happens when state power is confronted.
La police française en plein sang froid.
Très froid. pic.twitter.com/BDL9OgIVtx
— Nicolas Grégoire (@nicolasgregoire) December 2, 2018
Refusal
Have the French police and fire services decided that the government is going too far in its response? Here we see riot police removing helmets as they refuse to engage in “battle” against protestors.
Francuscy policjanci zdejmują kaski i nie chcą walczyć przeciw protestantom
Oj chyba Francuski rząd ma problem. pic.twitter.com/NI0SPRghYq— Robert🇵🇱 (@logicznyX) December 2, 2018
Even though the emergency services are more desperately needed than ever, Macron’s refusal to properly fund the fire service resulted in the turning of backs to their leadership and a walkout on December 1st.
https://twitter.com/realDMTadman/status/1069396178666541057
Stay tuned for coverage of the events in Paris. President Macron is in the process of deciding whether to declare a national State of Emergency, we will keep you up to date.
