Following riots caused by the police killing of a teenager, France has outlawed the sale, possession, and transportation of fireworks on the national holiday weekend of July 14.
The turmoil that erupted in France when a police officer killed a 17-year-old during a traffic check on June 27 near Paris rekindled long-simmering resentments and allegations of institutional racism among France’s security services. Fireworks were among the weapons of choice during this time.
“In order to prevent the risk of serious disturbances to public order during the July 14 festivities, the sale, possession, transport, and use of pyrotechnical articles and fireworks are banned until July 15 inclusively,” said a government decree published in the Official Journal on Sunday.
Professionals and local governments planning traditional fireworks displays for Bastille Day festivities are exempt from the restriction, it was underlined.
Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne said on Saturday that the government would use “massive means to protect the French” on the national holiday out of concern for a potential recurrence of unrest.
Every year, Bastille Day celebrations include fireworks displays. They are also utilised throughout national protests.
