Paris has now decided to strike down its outdoor mask rule after French court ruling. Now people will no longer have to wear masks outdoors, which was earlier made mandatory by the city's police.

French court suspends Paris outdoor mask rule despite a spike of COVID-19 cases in the country

The Notre Dame is a medieval cathedral that is currently being renovated after an enormous fire burnt and damaged a large part of this monument but is there a different way to still visit the cathedral and to witness the brilliant architecture that has set Notre Dame apart from all other cathedrals.

Explore the Notre Dame cathedral in Virtual Reality

Thousand of French teachers have taken to the streets in Central Paris. They are protesting against the repeated changes in the government's protocol amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.

Teachers union stage a protest in France over COVID-19 rules

Valerie Pecresse, a French woman who could become France's first female President. Voter survey shows she could beat President Emmanuel Macron in April's election.

Meet Valerie Pecresse, a French woman who could become France's first female President

France faced biggest strike of teachers as tens of thousands of educators walked off the job on Thursday and marched on streets protesting the government's Covid strategy for schools. They demanded better protection for pupils and staff against infection

"Stop your contempt," and "We're fed up with tests" teachers proclaimed on banners in rallies across France, calling for the government to provide them with FFP2 face-masks and to stop changing the rules so often.

Covid rules for schools have seen too many changes in France enraging teachers, parents and school directors

New testing requirements announced a day before schools restarted after the Christmas holidays and changed twice since increased the anger.

"We had reached such a level of exasperation, tiredness, and anger that we didn't have any other option but to organise a strike to send a strong message to the government," said union leader Elisabeth Allain-Moreno.

Many at the rallies called for the resignation of Education Minister Jean-Michel Blanquer. A government source said he was unlikely to lose his job so close to April's presidential election.

Prime Minister Jean Castex will, however, meet teachers' representatives later on Thursday, his office said, in a sign the government was keen to try and quell their anger.

The government has so far stood by its policy to keep classes open and requiring all pupils in contact with an infected person to get tested three times. Some degree of complication is the price to pay to keep schools open, it said.

"I know it's tough, but a strike does not solve problems. One does not strike against a virus," Blanquer told BFM TV earlier this week.

(With inputs from agencies)

France faced biggest strike of teachers as tens of thousands of educators walked off the job on Thursday and marched on streets protesting the government's Covid strategy for schools.

France faced biggest strike of teachers as tens of thousands of educators walked off the job on Thursday and marched on streets protesting the government's Covid strategy for schools. They demanded better protection for pupils and staff against infection "Stop your contempt," and "We're fed up with tests" teachers proclaimed on banners in rallies across France, calling for the government to provide them with FFP2 face-masks and to stop changing the rules so often. Covid rules for schools have seen too many changes in France enraging teachers, parents and school directors New testing requirements announced a day before schools restarted after the Christmas holidays and changed twice since increased the anger. "We had reached such a level of exasperation, tiredness, and anger that we didn't have any other option but to organise a strike to send a strong message to the government," said union leader Elisabeth Allain-Moreno. Many at the rallies called for the resignation of Education Minister Jean-Michel Blanquer. A government source said he was unlikely to lose his job so close to April's presidential election. Prime Minister Jean Castex will, however, meet teachers' representatives later on Thursday, his office said, in a sign the government was keen to try and quell their anger. The government has so far stood by its policy to keep classes open and requiring all pupils in contact with an infected person to get tested three times. Some degree of complication is the price to pay to keep schools open, it said. "I know it's tough, but a strike does not solve problems. One does not strike against a virus," Blanquer told BFM TV earlier this week. (With inputs from agencies)

France: Teachers walk off jobs, protest Covid strategy

France is all set to ban incest for the first time since 1791. Recent polls found that at least 10% of French people are victims of incest. Why did France delay this decision for two centuries? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: France finally bans incest

French interior minister said on Wednesday that closure of a mosque in Cannes had been ordered because of 'anti-Semitic'&nbsp;remarks made there. Gerald Darmanin, the minister said that the mosque was also guilty of supporting BarakaCity and&nbsp;CCIF, two organisations dissolved by the government for spreading 'Islamist' propaganda.

Darmanin said that he had consulted with David Lisnard, the Mayor of Cannes, before ordering closure of the mosque.

The move comes two weeks after authorities closed a mosque in the north of the country because of what they said was the radical nature of its imam's preaching.

The mosque in Beauvais, a town of 50,000 people some 100 kilometres (62 miles) north of Paris, was shut for six months because the sermons there incited hatred and violence and "defend jihad", authorities said.

Last October, a mosque in Allonnes, 200 kilometres west of Paris, was closed also for six months for sermons defending armed jihad and "terrorism", according to regional authorities.

The French government announced last year that it would step up checks of places of worship and associations suspected of spreading radical Islamic propaganda.

The crackdown came after the October 2020 murder of teacher Samuel Paty, who was targeted following an online campaign against him for having shown controversial cartoons of the Prophet Mohammed published by the satirical magazine Charlie Hebdo during a civics class.

In the interview on Wednesday, the interior minister said that 70 mosques in France were considered to be "radicalised".

According to the ministry, there are a total of 2,623 mosques and Muslim prayer halls in the country.

(With inputs from agencies)

French interior minister said on Wednesday that closure of a mosque in Cannes had been ordered because of 'anti-Semitic' remarks made there. Gerald Darmanin, the minister said that the mosque was also guilty of supporting BarakaCity and CCIF, two organisations dissolved by the government for spreading 'Islamist' propaganda.

French interior minister said on Wednesday that closure of a mosque in Cannes had been ordered because of 'anti-Semitic' remarks made there. Gerald Darmanin, the minister said that the mosque was also guilty of supporting BarakaCity and CCIF, two organisations dissolved by the government for spreading 'Islamist' propaganda. Darmanin said that he had consulted with David Lisnard, the Mayor of Cannes, before ordering closure of the mosque. The move comes two weeks after authorities closed a mosque in the north of the country because of what they said was the radical nature of its imam's preaching. The mosque in Beauvais, a town of 50,000 people some 100 kilometres (62 miles) north of Paris, was shut for six months because the sermons there incited hatred and violence and "defend jihad", authorities said. Last October, a mosque in Allonnes, 200 kilometres west of Paris, was closed also for six months for sermons defending armed jihad and "terrorism", according to regional authorities. The French government announced last year that it would step up checks of places of worship and associations suspected of spreading radical Islamic propaganda. The crackdown came after the October 2020 murder of teacher Samuel Paty, who was targeted following an online campaign against him for having shown controversial cartoons of the Prophet Mohammed published by the satirical magazine Charlie Hebdo during a civics class. In the interview on Wednesday, the interior minister said that 70 mosques in France were considered to be "radicalised". According to the ministry, there are a total of 2,623 mosques and Muslim prayer halls in the country. (With inputs from agencies)

Mosque in Cannes shut because of 'anti-Semitic' remarks

Protesters have taken to streets across France to oppose what they called the government’s plans to restrict the rights of the unvaccinated.

Anti-vaccination protesters rally across France

The Dakar 2022 rally in Saudi Arabia is facing calls of cancellation. France is accusing Riyadh of 'covering up' a 'terror attack' in which French driver was injured. Saudi authorities say the blast was an 'accident'. Palki Sharma decodes the brewing faceoff.

Gravitas: France accuses Saudi Arabia of 'covering up' a terror attack

Free birth control for all women under 25 will be available in France. The country is expanding a scheme that targets those under the age of 18. This is to ensure that young women don't stop taking contraceptives just because they cannot afford them.

France introduces free birth control scheme for all women under age 25

France hits Google and Facebook with hefty fines over privacy concerns that include cookie breaches.

Google, Facebook fined for cookie breaches by France

France's lower house of the Parliament has cleared plans for vaccine pass. All French citizens must be fully vaccinated to enjoy public needs.

French lower house passes vaccine pass plans

Tech giants Google and Facebook have been fined multi-million dollars by France's data privacy watchdog. The tech giants have been accused of making it difficult for internet users to refuse online trackers or cookies.

Google and Facebook fined for cookie breaches

Omicron variant is rampant in Europe. France has set the record for new covid cases, more than 300,000 new infections were recorded over the last 24 hours. 66,000 people received their first jab in a single day.

Omicron variant surges across Europe, France recorded 300,000 new covid-19 infections

Locals react positively after France made birth control methods free for all women under 25 from January 1. The country is looking forward to ensuring that young women, especially those who are under-18s, don't stop taking contraception because they cannot afford it.&nbsp;

The scheme included the pill, IUDs, contraceptive patches and other methods composed of steroid hormones and it is expected to three million women.&nbsp;

Veronique Cayol, who is a gynaecologist and sees many young female patients said that several factors like cost, medical visits, misinformation have prevented young women from using them.&nbsp;

"Making them free makes things simpler, from a financial point of view. This in itself will no longer be an obstacle to contraception, which gives a lot of freedom to women," Cayol said as quoted by Reuters.&nbsp;

Some of the European countries, like Belgium, Germany, the Netherlands and Norway make contraception free for teens and contraception for minors was already free in France. Britain also makes several forms of contraception free to all.

France announced the extension to women under 25 in September, saying surveys showed a decline in the use of contraception mainly for financial reasons.

The move is part of a series of measures taken by President Emmanuel Macron's government to boost women's rights and alleviate youth poverty.

(With inputs from agencies)

Locals react positively after France made birth control methods free for all women under 25 from January 1. The country is looking forward to ensuring that young women, especially those who are under-18s, don't stop taking contraception because they cannot afford it.

Locals react positively after France made birth control methods free for all women under 25 from January 1. The country is looking forward to ensuring that young women, especially those who are under-18s, don't stop taking contraception because they cannot afford it. The scheme included the pill, IUDs, contraceptive patches and other methods composed of steroid hormones and it is expected to three million women. Veronique Cayol, who is a gynaecologist and sees many young female patients said that several factors like cost, medical visits, misinformation have prevented young women from using them. "Making them free makes things simpler, from a financial point of view. This in itself will no longer be an obstacle to contraception, which gives a lot of freedom to women," Cayol said as quoted by Reuters. Some of the European countries, like Belgium, Germany, the Netherlands and Norway make contraception free for teens and contraception for minors was already free in France. Britain also makes several forms of contraception free to all. France announced the extension to women under 25 in September, saying surveys showed a decline in the use of contraception mainly for financial reasons. The move is part of a series of measures taken by President Emmanuel Macron's government to boost women's rights and alleviate youth poverty. (With inputs from agencies)

France's decision to make contraceptives free for women under 25 lauded by locals

Regulators in France have slapped massive fines of USD 237 million (210 million euros) on Facebook and Google over their use of 'cookies', said authorities on Thursday. Cookies and the data used to track users online.

Tech giants like Apple and Amazon have received major flak from regulators over their business practices in Europe. Massive fines have already been slapped and new rules may have far-reaching impact on how they operate in Europe.

The 150-million-euro fine imposed on Google was a record by France's National Commission for Information Technology and Freedom (CNIL), beating a previous cookie-related fine of 100 million euros against the company in December 2020.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/the-metaverses-dark-side-here-come-harassment-and-assaults-442636">The Metaverse’s dark side: Here come harassment and assaults</a>

Facebook was handed a 60-million-euro fine.

"CNIL has determined that the sites facebook.com, google.fr and (Google-owned) youtube.com do not allow users to refuse the use of cookies as simply as to accept them," the regulatory body said.

Facebook and Google have three months to adapt their practices. If they fail to do so, France will impose fines of 100,000 euros per day.

Google told AFP it would change its practices following the ruling.

"In accordance with the expectations of internet users... we are committed to implementing new changes, as well as to working actively with CNIL in response to its decision," the US firm said in a statement.&nbsp;

Cookies are little packets of data that are set up on a user's computer when they visit a website, allowing web browsers to save information about their session.

They are highly valuable for Google and Facebook as ways to personalise advertising -- their primary source of revenue.&nbsp;

But privacy advocates have long pushed back.&nbsp;

Since the European Union passed a 2018 law on personal data, internet companies face stricter rules that oblige them to seek the direct consent of users before installing cookies on their computers.

90 notices issued

CNIL argued that Google, Facebook and YouTube make it very easy to consent to cookies via a single button, whereas rejecting the request requires several clicks.

It had given internet companies until April 2021 to adapt to the tighter privacy rules, warning that they would start facing sanctions after that date.

French newspaper Le Figaro was the first to be sanctioned, receiving a fine of 50,000 euros in July for allowing cookies to be installed by advertising partners without the direct approval of users, or even after they had rejected them.

CNIL said recently that it had sent 90 formal notices to websites since April.

In 2020, it inflicted fines of 100 million and 35 million euros respectively on Google and Amazon for their use of cookies.

(With inputs from agencies)

Regulators in France have slapped massive fines of USD 237 million (210 million euros) on Facebook and Google over their use of 'cookies', said authorities on Thursday.

Regulators in France have slapped massive fines of USD 237 million (210 million euros) on Facebook and Google over their use of 'cookies', said authorities on Thursday. Cookies and the data used to track users online. Tech giants like Apple and Amazon have received major flak from regulators over their business practices in Europe. Massive fines have already been slapped and new rules may have far-reaching impact on how they operate in Europe. The 150-million-euro fine imposed on Google was a record by France's National Commission for Information Technology and Freedom (CNIL), beating a previous cookie-related fine of 100 million euros against the company in December 2020. Also Read | The Metaverse’s dark side: Here come harassment and assaults Facebook was handed a 60-million-euro fine. "CNIL has determined that the sites facebook.com, google.fr and (Google-owned) youtube.com do not allow users to refuse the use of cookies as simply as to accept them," the regulatory body said. Facebook and Google have three months to adapt their practices. If they fail to do so, France will impose fines of 100,000 euros per day. Google told AFP it would change its practices following the ruling. "In accordance with the expectations of internet users... we are committed to implementing new changes, as well as to working actively with CNIL in response to its decision," the US firm said in a statement. Cookies are little packets of data that are set up on a user's computer when they visit a website, allowing web browsers to save information about their session. They are highly valuable for Google and Facebook as ways to personalise advertising -- their primary source of revenue. But privacy advocates have long pushed back. Since the European Union passed a 2018 law on personal data, internet companies face stricter rules that oblige them to seek the direct consent of users before installing cookies on their computers. 90 notices issued CNIL argued that Google, Facebook and YouTube make it very easy to consent to cookies via a single button, whereas rejecting the request requires several clicks. It had given internet companies until April 2021 to adapt to the tighter privacy rules, warning that they would start facing sanctions after that date. French newspaper Le Figaro was the first to be sanctioned, receiving a fine of 50,000 euros in July for allowing cookies to be installed by advertising partners without the direct approval of users, or even after they had rejected them. CNIL said recently that it had sent 90 formal notices to websites since April. In 2020, it inflicted fines of 100 million and 35 million euros respectively on Google and Amazon for their use of cookies. (With inputs from agencies)

Facebook, Google slapped with huge fines in France over 'cookies'

A record number of COVID-19 cases has been reported in the US, United Kingdom, France, and Australia as the WHO warned that Omicron's rapid spread could lead to the spread of new, more dangerous variants.

On Tuesday, Britain reached 200,000 cases for the first time, Australia posted almost 50,000, and France tallied over 270,000, easily surpassing their previous records.

A global record was set on Monday by the United States with 1,080,211 cases reported, dwarfing even the high numbers of these countries.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-silver-bullets-australia-reports-record-high-in-covid-19-cases-hospitalisations-surge-442377" hreflang="en">'No silver bullets': Australia reports record high in COVID-19 cases; hospitalisations surge</a>

Due to weekend tally delays, Monday's figures are usually higher than those of the weekend and may have been inflated by a three-day New Year's holiday weekend.

As of Monday evening, Johns Hopkins University reported that the rolling average over seven days, which experts deem more reliable, was 486,000 cases per day.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/omicron">Omicron variant</a>, the most transmissible to date, accounted for around 59 per cent of cases in the United States near the end of last year.

Deaths and hospitalizations due to Omicron have been lower across the world, which raises hopes that the virus could be evolving into a relatively benign seasonal illness.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-what-is-the-new-ihu-variant-discovered-in-france-442349" hreflang="en">Explained: What is the new 'IHU' variant discovered in France?</a>

In Europe, the World Health Organization sounded an ominous note of caution on Tuesday, warning that the soaring infection rates could have the opposite effect.

"The more Omicron spreads, the more it transmits and the more it replicates, the more likely it is to throw out a new variant," said WHO senior emergencies officer Catherine Smallwood.

"Now, Omicron is lethal, it can cause death... maybe a little bit less than Delta, but who's to say what the next variant might throw out," she added.&nbsp;

"Even in well-capacitated, sophisticated health systems, there are real struggles that are happening at the moment."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rising-omicron-cases-may-lead-to-more-dangerous-variants-warns-who-442321" hreflang="en">Rising Omicron cases may lead to more dangerous variants, warns WHO</a>

In Britain, where the government announced Tuesday that hospitals were on "war footing" due to staff shortages, such a scenario has long been feared.

In the wake of a record number of 218,724 cases in 24 hours in the UK, President Boris Johnson promised action to plug staff shortages in the worst-hit areas, including the recruitment of medical volunteers backed by army support.

Johnson also said another nationwide lockdown is unlikely in England defending his decision not to increase restrictions over the festive season unlike other parts of the country.

Watch |&nbsp;Omicron: Australia's COVID-19 infections have hit a record high for the third consecutive day

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/omicron-australias-covid-19-infections-have-hit-a-record-high-for-the-third-consecutive-day-442360/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

With over 47,700 cases, Australia has also smashed its previous caseload record.

Rich nations have rushed to give their populations the third booster shot in an effort to curb the rising cases, while the poorest nations have only been able to receive the first.

Ahead of the pack, Israel has already begun rolling out the fourth dose last week.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A record number of COVID-19 cases has been reported in the US, United Kingdom, France, and Australia as the WHO warned that Omicron's rapid spread could lead to the spread of new, more dangerous variants.

A record number of COVID-19 cases has been reported in the US, United Kingdom, France, and Australia as the WHO warned that Omicron's rapid spread could lead to the spread of new, more dangerous variants. On Tuesday, Britain reached 200,000 cases for the first time, Australia posted almost 50,000, and France tallied over 270,000, easily surpassing their previous records. A global record was set on Monday by the United States with 1,080,211 cases reported, dwarfing even the high numbers of these countries. Also read | 'No silver bullets': Australia reports record high in COVID-19 cases; hospitalisations surge Due to weekend tally delays, Monday's figures are usually higher than those of the weekend and may have been inflated by a three-day New Year's holiday weekend. As of Monday evening, Johns Hopkins University reported that the rolling average over seven days, which experts deem more reliable, was 486,000 cases per day. The Omicron variant, the most transmissible to date, accounted for around 59 per cent of cases in the United States near the end of last year. Deaths and hospitalizations due to Omicron have been lower across the world, which raises hopes that the virus could be evolving into a relatively benign seasonal illness. Also read | Explained: What is the new 'IHU' variant discovered in France? In Europe, the World Health Organization sounded an ominous note of caution on Tuesday, warning that the soaring infection rates could have the opposite effect. "The more Omicron spreads, the more it transmits and the more it replicates, the more likely it is to throw out a new variant," said WHO senior emergencies officer Catherine Smallwood. "Now, Omicron is lethal, it can cause death... maybe a little bit less than Delta, but who's to say what the next variant might throw out," she added. "Even in well-capacitated, sophisticated health systems, there are real struggles that are happening at the moment." Also read | Rising Omicron cases may lead to more dangerous variants, warns WHO In Britain, where the government announced Tuesday that hospitals were on "war footing" due to staff shortages, such a scenario has long been feared. In the wake of a record number of 218,724 cases in 24 hours in the UK, President Boris Johnson promised action to plug staff shortages in the worst-hit areas, including the recruitment of medical volunteers backed by army support. Johnson also said another nationwide lockdown is unlikely in England defending his decision not to increase restrictions over the festive season unlike other parts of the country. Watch | Omicron: Australia's COVID-19 infections have hit a record high for the third consecutive day With over 47,700 cases, Australia has also smashed its previous caseload record. Rich nations have rushed to give their populations the third booster shot in an effort to curb the rising cases, while the poorest nations have only been able to receive the first. Ahead of the pack, Israel has already begun rolling out the fourth dose last week. (With inputs from agencies)

US sets global record, reports more than 1 million cases; UK, Australia, France also break previous records

WHO said the new variant was on the 'radar' of the UN health body since it was first identified in November.

What is the new 'IHU' variant discovered in France?

In a bid to spread awareness and cut down CO2 emissions, car advertisements in France will include messages encouraging people to consider less-polluting travel alternatives.

France car ads to contain messages to back less-pollution travel alternatives

French lawmakers debated a draft legislation that would require most people to be vaccinated against COVID-19 to enter public spaces such as bars, restaurants and long-distance public transport.

French MPs debate 'COVID-19 vaccine pass' bill, denounce death threats

France where lawmakers have debated draft legislation that would require most people to be vaccinated against covid-19. The past would be required to enter public spaces such as bars restaurants and long-distance public transport. The new law would remove the option of showing a negative test result instead of having the jabs.

French lawmakers draft Covid vaccine pass law amid 'tidal wave' of Omicron cases

Leaders of the five major nuclear powers- Russia, China, the United States, Britain and France have adopted a joint statement in which they affirmed that a nuclear war cannot be won and must never be fought.

P5 nations reaffirm a goal of a nuke-free world

The government in France has revamped quarantine rules for the infected, and it is planning to bring in stricter restrictions for the unvaccinated starting today.

French government revamps quarantine rules for the infected

Paris' landmarks were lit up in blue and adorned with EU flags on Saturday in celebration for the start of France's six-month presidency of the European Union.

Paris lights up in blue to mark start of France's six-month EU presidency

As many as 874 cars were set ablaze by people in France on New Year’s Eve as part of a decades old tradition, according to reports.

More than 441 people were detained for questioning after vehicles and trash cans were alight.

In Strasbourg, northeastern France, four police officers suffered minor injuries during the controversial tradition.

The French authorities say that there has been a drop in the number of cars torched during this New Year’s Eve due to the Covid pandemic.

Compared to the 874 cars burnt&nbsp;at the end of 2021, 2019 New Year’s Eve witnessed 1,316 cars being torched, the Interior Ministry said. The data for 2020 was not compiled owing to lockdown restrictions.&nbsp;

Authorities have attributed the decline to a beefed-up police presence of 95,000 officers in Paris and across the country on New Year's Eve, as well as restrictions imposed in view of the Omicron surge.

The car burning tradition dates back to the 90s in the region around Strasbourg in the eastern part of the country.

It is said that youths in lower-income neighbourhoods began the tradition, where it then spread as a sign of protests.

2005 witnessed the highest number of cars being set afire, with the police saying that nearly 9,000 vehicles were torched during protests in housing projects across France

A variety of reasons are given for car burnings in France, from rebellious youths, to a desire to cover up criminal acts, as well as false insurance claims.

(With inputs from agencies)

As many as 874 cars were set ablaze by people in France on New Year’s Eve as part of a decades old tradition, according to reports. More than 441 people were detained for questioning after vehicles and trash cans were alight.

As many as 874 cars were set ablaze by people in France on New Year’s Eve as part of a decades old tradition, according to reports. More than 441 people were detained for questioning after vehicles and trash cans were alight. In Strasbourg, northeastern France, four police officers suffered minor injuries during the controversial tradition. The French authorities say that there has been a drop in the number of cars torched during this New Year’s Eve due to the Covid pandemic. Compared to the 874 cars burnt at the end of 2021, 2019 New Year’s Eve witnessed 1,316 cars being torched, the Interior Ministry said. The data for 2020 was not compiled owing to lockdown restrictions. Authorities have attributed the decline to a beefed-up police presence of 95,000 officers in Paris and across the country on New Year's Eve, as well as restrictions imposed in view of the Omicron surge. The car burning tradition dates back to the 90s in the region around Strasbourg in the eastern part of the country. It is said that youths in lower-income neighbourhoods began the tradition, where it then spread as a sign of protests. 2005 witnessed the highest number of cars being set afire, with the police saying that nearly 9,000 vehicles were torched during protests in housing projects across France A variety of reasons are given for car burnings in France, from rebellious youths, to a desire to cover up criminal acts, as well as false insurance claims. (With inputs from agencies)

French torch 874 cars on New Year’s Eve as part of decades old tradition

Omicron is driving France's latest surge in infections, the French health agency stated that over 62% of people tested positive for the Omicron variant at the start of this week.

COVID News: Cases soar in France fueled by Omicron variant

France has culled 600,000 to 650,000 chickens, ducks and other poultry over the past month, officials said Friday, in a race to contain a bird flu virus threatening to become the fourth major outbreak in the country since 2015.

France culls over 600,000 poultry birds to contain bird flu virus threatening major outbreak

From 2022, no vegetables and fruits would be sold in wrapped plastic packaging, as France’s new law banning overwrapped eatables comes into force on Saturday.

A total of 30 varieties, including cucumbers, lemons and oranges, have been banned from being wrapped in plastic. Larger packs, as well as chopped or processed fruit, have been exempted.

President Emmanuel Macron called the ban “a real revolution”, saying it showed the country's commitment to phase out single-use plastics by 2040.

An estimated 37 per cent of fruit and vegetables were reportedly sold wrapped in plastic packaging in France in 2021.

The government believes the ban will cut more than 1 billion items of single-use plastic packaging a year. The environment ministry said there must be curbs on the “outrageous amount of single-use plastic in our daily lives”.

Also read |&nbsp;G<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germany-pulls-the-plug-on-3-of-six-nuclear-power-plants-remaining-to-be-shut-by-2022-end-441562">ermany pulls the plug on 3 of six nuclear power plants, remaining to be shut by 2022-end</a>

Since 2021, the country had already banned plastic straws, cups and cutlery, as well as polystyrene takeaway boxes.

After France, Spain will be following suit as it is planning to introduce prohibitions of the use of single-use plastic for the packaging of fruits and vegetables by 2023.

WWF France, which has campaigned on the impact of&nbsp;plastics&nbsp;on biodiversity and marine life in the Mediterranean and across oceans, did a poll in 2019, where it found that more than 85% of the people were in favour of banning single-use plastic products and packaging.

More than 2 million people have signed a WWF petition calling on world governments to stop the plastics pollution crisis.

Macron's government also announced several other new environmental regulations, including rules calling on car adverts to promote greener alternatives such as walking and cycling.

(With inputs from agencies)

From 2022, no vegetables and fruits would be sold in wrapped plastic packaging, as France’s new law banning overwrapped eatables comes into force on Saturday. A total of 30 varieties, including cucumbers, lemons and oranges, have been banned from being wrapped in plastic.

From 2022, no vegetables and fruits would be sold in wrapped plastic packaging, as France’s new law banning overwrapped eatables comes into force on Saturday. A total of 30 varieties, including cucumbers, lemons and oranges, have been banned from being wrapped in plastic. Larger packs, as well as chopped or processed fruit, have been exempted. President Emmanuel Macron called the ban “a real revolution”, saying it showed the country's commitment to phase out single-use plastics by 2040. An estimated 37 per cent of fruit and vegetables were reportedly sold wrapped in plastic packaging in France in 2021. The government believes the ban will cut more than 1 billion items of single-use plastic packaging a year. The environment ministry said there must be curbs on the “outrageous amount of single-use plastic in our daily lives”. Also read | Germany pulls the plug on 3 of six nuclear power plants, remaining to be shut by 2022-end Since 2021, the country had already banned plastic straws, cups and cutlery, as well as polystyrene takeaway boxes. After France, Spain will be following suit as it is planning to introduce prohibitions of the use of single-use plastic for the packaging of fruits and vegetables by 2023. WWF France, which has campaigned on the impact of plastics on biodiversity and marine life in the Mediterranean and across oceans, did a poll in 2019, where it found that more than 85% of the people were in favour of banning single-use plastic products and packaging. More than 2 million people have signed a WWF petition calling on world governments to stop the plastics pollution crisis. Macron's government also announced several other new environmental regulations, including rules calling on car adverts to promote greener alternatives such as walking and cycling. (With inputs from agencies)

Towards a greener future: France starts banning plastic packaging of fruits and vegetables

After Iran announced on Thursday that it had carried out a new space launch, France has now condemned it and said that it was "regrettable" amid the ongoing nuclear talks with world powers.

After Iran announced on Thursday that it had carried out a new space launch, France has now condemned it and said that it was "regrettable" amid the ongoing nuclear talks with world powers. France's foreign ministry said on Friday (December 31) said that the satellite launch was in breach of the United Nations Security Council resolutions. "These activities are all the more regrettable as they come at a time when we are making progress in the nuclear negotiations in Vienna," the French foreign ministry said. "We call on Iran not to launch further ballistic missiles designed to be capable of carrying nuclear weapons, including space launchers." Iran had informed and Iranian state TV showed footage, confirming the firing of the launch vehicle from the Imam Khomeini Space Center in northern Iran. Criticism from the West After the news of the launch emerged, it was criticised by the West as they worry that satellite launch systems incorporate technologies interchangeable with those used in ballistic missiles capable of delivering a nuclear warhead. "The United States remains concerned with Iran's development of space launch vehicles, which pose a significant proliferation concern," a US State Department spokesperson said. A German diplomat said such launches could be used to test technology for ballistic missiles which in principle could be used to deliver nuclear weapons. Meanwhile, Iran insists its space programme is for civilian and defence purposes only and does not breach the nuclear deal or any other international agreement. (With inputs from agencies)

France condemns Iran's space launch amid nuclear deal talks, calls it 'regrettable'

Following an unexpected crackdown, France declared on Thursday that it would show "tolerance" to British travellers wishing to transit the nation on their way to residences elsewhere in the European Union.

Non-resident Britons were no longer allowed to drive across France under harsher Covid rules that went into effect this week; only those who have a primary French home would be allowed in.

Many Britons drive from the UK to their residences in other EU countries via the Channel Tunnel to France, using Eurotunnel's Shuttle service.

According to new travel guidelines issued by French officials on December 28, only Britons whose official primary residence is in France are allowed to enter.&nbsp;

Eurotunnel is a bridge between the United Kingdom and France that connects Folkestone in England with Coquelles near Calais.

Eurotunnel announced on Wednesday that the French government has strengthened its rules in a "urgent" update.

"Unless they have French residency, British people are now deemed third-country citizens and cannot travel through France by car to reach their EU country of residence," Eurotunnel warned.&nbsp;

"Nationals of the European Union or equivalent," as well as their partners and children, "who have their main residence in France or who join, in transit through France, their main residence in a country of the European Union" are considered to have a compelling reason for travelling from the UK through France, according to French travel guidance.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Following an unexpected crackdown, France declared on Thursday that it would show "tolerance" to British travellers wishing to transit the nation on their way to residences elsewhere in the European Union.

Following an unexpected crackdown, France declared on Thursday that it would show "tolerance" to British travellers wishing to transit the nation on their way to residences elsewhere in the European Union. Non-resident Britons were no longer allowed to drive across France under harsher Covid rules that went into effect this week; only those who have a primary French home would be allowed in. Many Britons drive from the UK to their residences in other EU countries via the Channel Tunnel to France, using Eurotunnel's Shuttle service. According to new travel guidelines issued by French officials on December 28, only Britons whose official primary residence is in France are allowed to enter. Eurotunnel is a bridge between the United Kingdom and France that connects Folkestone in England with Coquelles near Calais. Eurotunnel announced on Wednesday that the French government has strengthened its rules in a "urgent" update. "Unless they have French residency, British people are now deemed third-country citizens and cannot travel through France by car to reach their EU country of residence," Eurotunnel warned. "Nationals of the European Union or equivalent," as well as their partners and children, "who have their main residence in France or who join, in transit through France, their main residence in a country of the European Union" are considered to have a compelling reason for travelling from the UK through France, according to French travel guidance. (With inputs from agencies)

France lifts transit ban for EU-based British drivers after uproar

As governments across Europe fight to curb the Omicron variant, France has reported the largest daily number of Covid cases ever.

However, France was not alone in smashing records on Tuesday, as Italy, Greece, Portugal, and the United Kingdom also reported new highs.

France reported a record high of 179,807 new confirmed coronavirus cases in a 24-hour period on Tuesday, one of the highest one-day tallies worldwide since the start of the pandemic.

Part of the reason for the data could be related to reporting delays over the holidays. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/for-precaution-dose-no-doctor-certificate-needed-for-60-plus-people-with-co-morbidity-in-india-440760">Also read | For precaution dose, no doctor certificate needed for 60-plus people with co-morbidity in India</a>

Countries had been reporting increases in the run-up to the holidays, owing to the more contagious Omicron variant.&nbsp;

As countries restored harsh restrictions to stamp out COVID-19 outbreaks, the WHO warned that the Omicron coronavirus variant&nbsp;might overwhelm healthcare systems, despite early studies suggesting it causes milder symptoms.

Surges of COVID-19 have wreaked havoc around the world, forcing many countries to choose between economically onerous restrictions and controlling the virus's growth.&nbsp; 
 
Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/while-west-struggles-to-control-omicron-surge-indias-covid-tally-tells-a-different-story-440603" hreflang="en">While West struggles to control Omicron surge, India's covid tally tells a different story</a>

To reduce disturbance, the United States has cut the time spent in isolation for asymptomatic patients in half.

For the second year in a row, contact limits were in place in Germany as the European Union's largest economy closed nightclubs and forced sports competitions behind closed doors.

Despite the fact that the outbreak is significantly less than in other global viral hotspots, China has maintained its "zero COVID" policy, issuing stay-at-home orders in several regions of Yan'an.

Hundreds of thousands of people in the area were among the 13 million people in Xi'an who were ordered to stay at home for the sixth day as China battled its highest daily case count in 21 months.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

As governments across Europe fight to curb the Omicron variant, France has reported the largest daily number of Covid cases ever. However, France was not alone in smashing records on Tuesday, as Italy, Greece, Portugal, and the United Kingdom also reported new highs.

As governments across Europe fight to curb the Omicron variant, France has reported the largest daily number of Covid cases ever. However, France was not alone in smashing records on Tuesday, as Italy, Greece, Portugal, and the United Kingdom also reported new highs. France reported a record high of 179,807 new confirmed coronavirus cases in a 24-hour period on Tuesday, one of the highest one-day tallies worldwide since the start of the pandemic. Part of the reason for the data could be related to reporting delays over the holidays. Also read | For precaution dose, no doctor certificate needed for 60-plus people with co-morbidity in India Countries had been reporting increases in the run-up to the holidays, owing to the more contagious Omicron variant. As countries restored harsh restrictions to stamp out COVID-19 outbreaks, the WHO warned that the Omicron coronavirus variant might overwhelm healthcare systems, despite early studies suggesting it causes milder symptoms. Surges of COVID-19 have wreaked havoc around the world, forcing many countries to choose between economically onerous restrictions and controlling the virus's growth. Also Read: While West struggles to control Omicron surge, India's covid tally tells a different story To reduce disturbance, the United States has cut the time spent in isolation for asymptomatic patients in half. For the second year in a row, contact limits were in place in Germany as the European Union's largest economy closed nightclubs and forced sports competitions behind closed doors. Despite the fact that the outbreak is significantly less than in other global viral hotspots, China has maintained its "zero COVID" policy, issuing stay-at-home orders in several regions of Yan'an. Hundreds of thousands of people in the area were among the 13 million people in Xi'an who were ordered to stay at home for the sixth day as China battled its highest daily case count in 21 months. (With inputs from agencies)

Omicron spread: France reports record of nearly 180,000 COVID-19 cases

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