The French are protesting against the increase in excise duties on fuel

19 November 2018

The French authorities are going to raise taxes on gasoline and diesel fuel

In Russia, adverse changes in the lives of citizens are perceived generally calm. Long ago there were mass protests? But just remember that this year we have significantly increased fuel prices, raised VAT and the retirement age, not to mention less resonant factors like the weakening of the ruble and General stagnation. Whether it is in Europe. Only one news about intention to raise taxes on diesel fuel and gasoline in France has led to mass demonstrations, blocking of tracks and fuel tanks.

Only over the weekend in protests took part about 300 thousand of the French. While they didn't even have a single focal point. The occasion was the planned tax increase on diesel fuel 6.5% of gasoline and 2.9 %. Seems to be a trifle in comparison with the Russian reforms?

However, the news was superimposed on a gradual increase in fuel prices: in 2018, gasoline prices rose by 10-15 %, diesel fuel — up to 24 %. In the end, "diesel oil" in France worth €1.6 and above, the gasoline is €1,48. But even amid the protests and their record low rating of Emmanuel macron is not going to refuse the higher taxes.

Shares spread all over the country — their members acted in Marseille, Toulouse and at the Paris ring road, in Normandy and Brittany and other regions. Guardians of order used tear gas. The number of injured in clashes with police exceeded 400 people. Even reported about one killed: he was hit by a woman who drove her daughter to the doctor.

On Monday, the protesters began to block the fuel storage. They also continued to block the road. Blocked highway A16 near Calais, as well as tracks A7 and A36.