Thai embassy warns nationals in France to avoid October 24 protests
Thailand’s embassy in Paris has warned Thai nationals to avoid demonstrations on October 24 as France prepares tighter security and possible road and public transport closures.
The Royal Thai Embassy in Paris has issued its third safety advisory to Thai nationals in France, warning them to stay away from protest areas and avoid taking photographs or videos at close range during demonstrations scheduled for Saturday (October 24).
The warning follows announcements of planned demonstrations involving the General Confederation of Labour (CGT), student organisations and supporters of the Yellow Vest (Gilets jaunes) movement. French authorities have prepared heightened security measures, with several gatherings prohibited.
In Paris, the CGT is scheduled to lead an authorised march from Place de la Bastille to Place de la Nation in the 12th arrondissement, beginning at 2pm. The route has received police approval.
Yellow Vest supporters have separately announced plans to gather at Place de la Bastille from noon, before beginning a march at 2.30pm.
Their proposed route would pass through Place de la République, Boulevard Beaumarchais, Boulevard du Temple, Boulevard Saint-Martin and the Grands Boulevards area, before reaching Place de l’Opéra at approximately 6pm. However, French authorities have banned the march.
Student organisations have also called for a gathering at Place de la Bastille at 2pm on the same day.
The embassy cautioned that demonstration arrangements and security restrictions could change depending on developments, advising Thai nationals to follow official announcements from the French authorities.
French security preparations include the planned deployment of police officers, military personnel and specialist units, supported by armoured vehicles and water cannon.
Authorities may also introduce temporary road closures, traffic restrictions and closures of certain metro stations where necessary to maintain public order.
Outside Paris, demonstrations have been prohibited throughout Lyon, as well as in central areas of Nice and Toulon, according to the embassy's advisory.
The embassy warned that large gatherings, particularly unauthorised demonstrations, could lead to disorder or confrontations between protesters and security personnel.
Road traffic in Paris could be disrupted around Place de la Bastille, Place de la République, Grands Boulevards, Place de l’Opéra and Place de la Nation.
Public transport services may also be affected by route changes and temporary closures of metro stations or other transport facilities.
Those travelling between cities or to airports could face delays caused by congestion and heightened security measures. The embassy recommended allowing additional travel time and checking transport services before departure.
Thai nationals were advised to avoid demonstration sites, planned march routes, restricted areas and locations where disturbances are occurring.
They were particularly cautioned against approaching or joining prohibited gatherings and reminded to comply strictly with instructions from French security personnel.
The embassy also recommended monitoring announcements from French authorities, checking public transport updates and planning alternative routes when travel is unavoidable.
Anyone encountering a potentially dangerous situation should leave the area immediately and avoid taking photographs or recording videos at close range if doing so could increase their exposure to danger.
Thai nationals requiring emergency assistance can contact the Royal Thai Embassy in Paris on 06 46 71 96 94.
