Welcome to May, PT friends! I have recently returned from a trip to France, and since obviously that makes me a qualified expert on all things France, I thought I’d share some French news.
France has been deep at work preparing for the Olympics, but that’s created tensions. While France is investing heavily in building Olympic venues and beautifying the city, people in the suburbs are protesting for underfunded schools.
Also in preparation for the Olympics, there’s mounting frustration with the metro system. Services were cut during the pandemic and haven’t yet been restored. Frankly, as an American, I was quite impressed with the speed and regularity of the trains, though some lines were crowded.
France’s prime minister has announced new measures to try to curb the spike in school violence. Unfortunately, this is an issue that seems to sit at the intersection of racism and fears stoked by the far-right, which is gaining ground ahead of the upcoming European elections.
A bill has been introduced to allow assisted suicide in very specific conditions, although it remains a contentious bill. Lawmakers will vote on it by the end of the month.
Also, to thank Dave for filling in for me last Wednesday, here are a few birds I encountered in France:
Be kind and thoughtful today. Cheers.