Protests break out as France implements new vaccination rules

On July 12, French President Emmanuel Macron announced new COVID-19 measures in response to the spread of the delta variant, restricting access to cafes, bars, and shopping centers to those who are vaccinated or have a recent negative COVID-19 test.

The new mandates, set to take effect in August, have prompted over 900,000 French citizens to schedule vaccine appointments via the online medical platform Doctolib, according to NPR.

Translation: "Yesterday, 926,000 French individuals booked an appointment on Doctolib for their vaccination (first dose). A record number!"

In addition, Macron declared that vaccination would be mandatory for all healthcare workers, including caregivers and staff in hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, facilities for disabled individuals, and home health aides.

"Our nation is experiencing a significant resurgence of the epidemic," he stated on Twitter. "Vaccinating all French citizens is the only path back to normalcy."

Starting in August, both French residents and visitors will need to provide proof of vaccination or a recent negative PCR test through a digital health pass.

From July 21 onward, anyone aged 12 and older will be required to show a health pass to access amusement parks or participate in concerts, festivals, or shows, as a spike in cases has been linked to individuals aged 15-44, according to NPR.

These restrictions will affect public venues accommodating more than 50 people, as well as public transport including trains and airplanes.

The newly implemented health measures have also sparked protests across the country.

France reopened its borders to fully vaccinated travelers from "green" countries, including the U.S., on June 17, provided they show proof of vaccination. Unvaccinated Americans can also enter if they present a negative PCR or rapid test taken within 72 hours before their flight to France.

Currently, nearly 40% of France's population has been fully vaccinated. Macron stated that the aim is to reach 100% vaccination coverage.

The country plans to launch a vaccination campaign for schools in September, according to reports from France 24, a French state-owned news outlet.

"Our decision is straightforward: to impose restrictions on the unvaccinated instead of the entire population," remarked Macron.