Protests Against France's Low Emission Zones Intensify Ahead of Parliamentary Debate

Motorcyclists and advocacy groups plan demonstrations in Paris this weekend as the National Assembly prepares to discuss a potential repeal of the ZFE policy.

The Fédération française des motards en colère (FFMC) and other groups will protest in Paris on April 6, 2025, against the Low Emission Zones (ZFE) policy, calling it socially unfair.
The French National Assembly is set to begin debating a proposal to abolish ZFE policies on April 8, 2025, amid growing public opposition.
The ZFE policy, implemented in 2019 and expanded in January 2025, has reduced nitrogen dioxide levels by over a third in cities like Paris and Lyon but faces criticism for disproportionately affecting low-income individuals.
Automated enforcement of ZFE restrictions remains delayed due to the lack of radar systems, while exemptions and temporary passes have been introduced to ease the burden on affected residents.
The government warns that repealing ZFE policies could cost France over €3 billion in European Union subsidies, raising concerns about financial and environmental impacts.