Nightclubs all over France are closing for at least four weeks thanks to a rise in COVID-19 cases.
This new restriction is one of many aimed at curbing a rise in infections amongst young people. Others include stricter social distancing measures and mandatory mask wearing in schools. Employers are asked to encourage employees to work from home when possible, and end-of-year parties are discouraged. On top of this, health passes are required for restaurants and outdoor Christmas markets.
During a news conference, French Prime Minister Jean Castex said, “The time is not for gauges, curfews, or lockdowns. That would be disproportionate. However, the circumstances require an individual and collective effort to ensure everyone limits risk of contamination.”
Speaking with France24, Thierry Fontaine of the Trade and Hospitalities Industries argued that nightclubs are unfairly targeted in the new restrictions. “Once again there’s no clampdown on any other section,” he said. “They cancel New Year’s Eve for us, but they’ll be dancing in all the restaurants.” He also claims that clubs will not be properly compensated for the holiday season income on which they’re losing out.
As of December 7th, France has reported 59,019 new COVID-19 cases, with a seven-day average of 44,584 cases. 70.6% of French citizens are fully vaccinated.
