What is happening in France?

This year, France has faced another wave of social unrest as citizens have taken to the streets again.
Fuelled by mounting frustration over inequality, high unemployment, and a lack of government action, the protests are seen by many as an inevitable release of build-up rage.

The trigger for this particular uprising? The homicide of 17-year old ‘Nahel M’ by French police. Unfortunately, this story of police violence directed at young people and minorities is now one so familiar, the headlines are more often met with exhausted sighs rather than tears.

Those who knew Nahel, who was of Algerian descent, said he was well-loved in Nanterre where he lived with his mother Mounia and had apparently never known his father. - BBC article, 2023

Demonstrators have been demanding social justice and economic reforms, and frustration has been building. As often is the way, a number of the frustrated protesters have damaged public transport and infrastructure, which has turned the tide on media coverage.
The relatives of Nahel M have asked for calm and above all - Justice. They want the police officer in prison for killing Nahel.

Unfortunately, the fatal consequences of racism aren’t going to stop any time soon, especially while police forces are using racial profiling alongside deadly weapons.

It’s time for those of us in a place of safety to raise our voices. Join the conversation at one of our upcoming events.