Number of deaths during the yellow vest protests in France 2018-2019
What is the yellow vests movement?
The yellow vests movement, called Gilets Jaunes in French, began in October 2018. It has been caused by the combination of general discontentment with the action of President Emmanuel Macron, and an increase in fuel prices. The protestors, using the high-visibility yellow vest as a symbol, denounced the high cost of living of middle classes. They also accused the government to leave behind peri-urban and rural areas.The main actions of the movement were demonstrations all across the country, which gathered thousands of citizens coming from different backgrounds and political orientations. These protests involved for example blocking roads and were characterized by violent police response.
After months of mass demonstrations demanding more social and fiscal justice, the movement obtained some concessions such as the cancellation of fuel tax and the implementation of a Great National Debate.