French President Emmanuel Macron has signaled that social networks could be shut down if the country’s crisis deepens. This remark was shared during a meeting with mayors of cities hit by protests, according to BFMTV.
Macron underscored the need to consider how online platforms are used by young people and to discuss potential restrictions. He stressed that social networks might be regulated or temporarily turned off if the situation deteriorates further. He also stressed that such discussions should not take place in the heat of the moment, but rather through careful, deliberate policy making.
During the six days of unrest in France, authorities reported that 3,625 people were detained, including 1,124 minors. As the situation evolved, about 380 individuals had been taken into custody, with the final numbers still to be confirmed.
The protests in France began after a police operation in the Paris suburban area led to the death of a 17-year-old teenager on the evening of June 27. The ensuing events escalated into clashes with police, vandalism, and widespread theft targeted at stores and shopping centers.
In a related note, Sweden previously allowed demonstrations that included the burning of the Koran, a development that drew international attention and debate over religious symbols and public order in the region.