Paris Approves Plan to Pedestrianize 500 Streets Despite Low Voter Turnout

A referendum with only 4% participation saw 66% support for the initiative, raising questions about its democratic legitimacy as implementation details remain undecided.

The plan to pedestrianize and green 500 streets in Paris was approved in a referendum, with 66% of participants voting in favor.
Voter turnout was notably low, with only 4% of eligible residents participating, sparking concerns about the legitimacy of the decision.
The initiative is expected to take three to four years to implement, with local districts determining which streets will be affected.
The plan will eliminate 10,000 parking spaces in Paris, furthering Mayor Anne Hidalgo's long-term efforts to reduce car traffic and improve urban sustainability.
Critics argue the low participation undermines the mandate and warn of potential negative impacts on businesses, emergency services, and car-dependent residents.

Westdeutsche Allgemeine Zeitung

Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung