Croatia issues France travel warning; what you need to know

The Croatian Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs has issued a warning to Croatian citizens traveling to France due to a deteriorated security situation and violent protests. Citizens are advised to exercise increased caution, avoid large gatherings, and follow the instructions of French authorities. The protests escalated into riots over the past weekend, during which thousands of people were arrested, and clashes with police as well as attacks on shops were reported.

The Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs of the Republic of Croatia recommends that Croatian citizens residing in France or planning a trip avoid protest gathering sites and regularly monitor official announcements and instructions from competent French authorities. It is warned that protest activities may cause road traffic delays, restricted access to certain areas, and difficulties in the functioning of public transportation.

Protests across France, triggered by high prices and dissatisfaction with the state of public services, escalated into violent riots over the weekend. On Saturday, a city administration building was set on fire, and violent groups clashed with police. Thousands of people were arrested during the protests, while certain shops were targeted by protesters.

Due to security risks, several European countries have issued warnings to their citizens. Alongside Croatia, increased caution has been urged by Italy, Germany, the Czech Republic, Poland, the Netherlands, and the Nordic countries. Italy recommended that its citizens register their stay via a website or app so that competent services can locate them if necessary.

Germany warns that further riots cannot be ruled out in the coming days and urges citizens to follow the instructions of local police. The Czech Ministry of Foreign Affairs assessed that the security situation has deteriorated, while Poland and the Netherlands also advise avoiding protests. Denmark, Sweden, Finland, and Norway recommend their citizens exercise caution and respect the instructions of French authorities.

Croatian citizens traveling to France are recommended to monitor the latest security announcements from the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs and competent French services before departure and during their stay. Special attention should be paid to possible traffic changes, movement restrictions, and announced public gatherings.

Source: HRT