this post was submitted on 21 Jul 2023
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What do you expect when "protests" involve widespread destruction of private property, looting, fires, and vandalism?
I dunno if you know literally anything about the French, but Rioting is a long-standing part of their political culture over there. I'd argue it's a good thing.
It got France to this point (descent into authoritarianism), and you think that's a good thing?
Riots may have worked for France 800 years ago, but not in this modern world, I'm afraid.
..... Do you know what the French historically do to authoritarians???
The most famously successful riots happened in 1789 (234 years ago). I'm sure you were just being hyperbolic, but its important to note that this isn't some relic of ancient history, its the cornerstone of their modern democracy.
No, I mean 800 years ago, like the 1229 University of Paris strike (riot), but yes, there were many others that happened in the last <300 years.
Regardless, I think the impact of a modern day riot isn't nearly the same as one taking place hundreds of years ago.
It did not get France to descend into authoritarianism.
When your policies are so unpopular that it comes to that level of rioting, you have two options:
You dissolve the National Assembly and organise new elections. If your party loses, you step down from the presidency.
You increase the budget of the police and the military, create additional surveillance laws, criminalise actions you feel are a danger to your ability to hold power, you ban environmentalist groups.
A democratic government would go for the first option. Macron has always been authoritarian.