French Protests Call for ‘Freedom’ Amid Government Vaccine Push

Demonstrators walk past Pyramide du Louvre during a protest against the new measures announced by French President Emmanuel Macron to fight the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak, in Paris, on July 17, 2021. Pascal Rossignol /Reuters

PARIS—Thousands marched across France on Saturday to protest against President Emmanuel Macron’s plans to force vaccination of health workers and require a COVID-19 free certificate to enter places such as bars, restaurants, and cinemas.

Macron this week announced sweeping measures to fight a rapid surge in coronavirus infections, which protesters say infringe the freedom of choice of those who do not want the vaccination.