france24--2020-03-13--France's Louvre, Versailles and Eiffel Tower close over coronavirus crisis

People line up outside Paris 's Louvre Museum as it was closed during a staff meeting about the coronavirus outbreak on March 1 , 2020 .
Following a French government directive banning gatherings of more than 100 people in a bid to contain the coronavirus ’ s spread , the Louvre Museum , Versailles Palace and the Eiffel Tower closed on Friday .
The Louvre in Paris , the world 's most visited museum , said Friday that it was closing `` until further notice '' because of the coronavirus .
The closure of the museum , which had 9.6 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the French government banned all gatherings of over 100 people to limit the spread of the virus .
Versailles Palace – one of France 's other big tourist attraction with nearly 10 million tourists a year – swiftly followed suit .
And the Eiffel Tower said its doors would shut from 9pm local time Friday ( 20:00 GMT ) `` due to the COVID-19 epidemic '' .
Management said it hoped `` to be able to reopen very soon when conditions allow it '' , in a statement on its website Friday .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ people at a time on Monday as the number of cases in France began to rise .
In a sign that the shutdown could be relatively long-lasting , the museum said it was also postponing two upcoming exhibitions , including a show on Italian sculpture from Donatello to Michelangelo which was not due to open until May .
The Musée d'Orsay in Paris , which holds the world 's biggest collection of Impressionist paintings , also followed the Louvre 's lead later Friday .
A string of other museums said they too were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ministry ordered state institutions to shut or to severely restrict entry Friday .
Public theatres , libraries and concert halls were also told to close .
France 's Culture Minister Franck Riester is quarantined at his home after testing positive for the virus earlier this week .
The prospect of a long shutdown has left theatres and concert halls in Paris staring into the financial abyss .
The entertainment industry across France – but particularly in the capital – had already been reeling from a six-week transport strike over pension reforms earlier this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Opera alone facing loses of €16.4 million ( $ 18 million ) .
Impresario Jean-Marc Dumontet , who owns several Paris theatres , told AFP that the shutdown was a devastating double blow .
`` Some of my staff are in tears , '' he said .
`` It 's a knock-out blow .
Projects are having to be abandoned , '' adding that all shows opening between now and August are threatened .
`` It 's extremely sad and really shocking . ''
The Paris Opera has pulled 34 operas , ballets @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the French capital , with only shows after April 24 still due to go ahead for now .
All rehearsals have also been cancelled .
`` We have still enough money to meet our obligations , '' said the Paris Opera 's CEO Martin Ajdari , but he warned that `` anything that will follow this difficult period will be complicated '' .
The Louvre and the Musée d'Orsay had both restricted entry to 1,000 people earlier this week , with the Louvre forcing visitors to book online .
But with the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Friday , and the government closing schools and crèches , the museums were forced to take a more radical approach .
The Louvre had closed for two days last week when staff refused to work over health fears .

Following a French government directive banning gatherings of more than 100 people in a bid to contain the coronavirus’s spread, the Louvre Museum, Versailles Palace and the Eiffel Tower closed on Friday.
People line up outside Paris's Louvre Museum as it was closed during a staff meeting about the coronavirus outbreak on March 1, 2020.
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The Louvre in Paris, the world's most visited museum, said Friday that it was closing "until further notice" because of the coronavirus.
The closure of the museum, which had 9.6 million visitors last year, came after the French government banned all gatherings of over 100 people to limit the spread of the virus.
Versailles Palace – one of France's other big tourist attraction with nearly 10 million tourists a year – swiftly followed suit.
And the Eiffel Tower said its doors would shut from 9pm local time Friday (20:00 GMT) "due to the COVID-19 epidemic".
Management said it hoped "to be able to reopen very soon when conditions allow it", in a statement on its website Friday.
The Louvre had restricted entry to 1,000 people at a time on Monday as the number of cases in France began to rise.
In a sign that the shutdown could be relatively long-lasting, the museum said it was also postponing two upcoming exhibitions, including a show on Italian sculpture from Donatello to Michelangelo which was not due to open until May.
The Musée d'Orsay in Paris, which holds the world's biggest collection of Impressionist paintings, also followed the Louvre's lead later Friday.
A string of other museums said they too were closing their doors after the French culture ministry ordered state institutions to shut or to severely restrict entry Friday.
Public theatres, libraries and concert halls were also told to close.
France's Culture Minister Franck Riester is quarantined at his home after testing positive for the virus earlier this week.
Fears of long shutdown
The prospect of a long shutdown has left theatres and concert halls in Paris staring into the financial abyss.
The entertainment industry across France – but particularly in the capital – had already been reeling from a six-week transport strike over pension reforms earlier this year, which has left the Paris Opera alone facing loses of €16.4 million ($18 million).
Impresario Jean-Marc Dumontet, who owns several Paris theatres, told AFP that the shutdown was a devastating double blow.
"Some of my staff are in tears," he said. "It's a knock-out blow. Projects are having to be abandoned," adding that all shows opening between now and August are threatened.
"It's extremely sad and really shocking."
The Paris Opera has pulled 34 operas, ballets and concerts at its two opera houses in the French capital, with only shows after April 24 still due to go ahead for now.
All rehearsals have also been cancelled.
"We have still enough money to meet our obligations," said the Paris Opera's CEO Martin Ajdari, but he warned that "anything that will follow this difficult period will be complicated".
The Louvre and the Musée d'Orsay had both restricted entry to 1,000 people earlier this week, with the Louvre forcing visitors to book online.
But with the death toll in France reaching 61 on Friday, and the government closing schools and crèches, the museums were forced to take a more radical approach.
The Louvre had closed for two days last week when staff refused to work over health fears.
(FRANCE 24 with REUTERS)
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france24--2020-03-13--In Africa, coronavirus cases rise as experts voice concern about health systems

People stand in an aisle to buy liquid soaps after the stock of disinfectants ran out at supermarkets in Nairobi , Kenya on March 13 , 2020 .
Cases of the new coronavirus are ramping up in Africa , with six new countries announcing confirmed infections in the past 24 hours .
Across Africa , at least 17 of the continent 's 54 countries have now registered COVID-19 cases .
The majority of these cases are imported , authorities say .
On Friday , Kenya , Guinea and Ethiopia reported their first cases , while Gabon and Ghana did so @ @ @ @ @ @ @ first case , a person who had already died .
Experts warn that on the continent of more than 1.3 billion people , containment is key as Africa 's already strained health systems could likely lead to a higher mortality rate and deeper crisis that would have global impact .
> > Read more : Is Africa , with its low rates so far , ready to face the coronavirus pandemic ?
African countries only began reporting cases in February , and most have been imported by travelers from Europe and the US @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Friday , bringing its total to 24 .
Amid growing worry across the country , the military is preparing to repatriate 121 South African students from the epicenter of the outbreak , Wuhan , China .
The returned students and the military on the flight will immediately be placed in quarantine .
Africa has so far been good at containing the virus because they have detected cases early , said Dr. Mary Stephen , technical officer at the World Health Organization regional office in Brazzaville , Republic of Congo .
The continent ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ US , Europe and especially Asia , where the virus originated , but experts and foundations warn that the emergence of COVID-19 on the African continent could be catastrophic given the fragile health systems in several countries .
“ From the beginning we knew the continent is at risk , ” Stephen told The Associated Press.
“ The uniqueness of Africa is the fact that one , we have a large population , ” she said , adding that the continent 's health systems are “ dealing with a lot of other emergencies @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ebola .
The goal is to detect cases quickly , isolate and manage them , she said .
“ We want to prevent community transmission , ” she said .
The vast majority of people recover from the new virus .
The number of COVID-19 cases worldwide has surpassed 120,000 , and 60,000 people have already recovered .
According to the World Health Organization , people with mild illness recover in about two weeks , while those with more severe illness may take three to six weeks to recover .
Africa 's hospitals @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for large numbers of people who may need intensive care and ventilators , say health experts .
At the start of the outbreak only two African countries had the capacity to test for COVID-19 and now 43 countries have laboratories to detect cases , according to the Africa CDC , based in Addis Ababa , Ethiopia .
It says all the labs have kits to carry out 100 to 200 tests .
The WHO and CDC are prepared to provide additional kits for 1,000 tests to any country reporting a case .
Communication @ @ @ @ @ @ @ WHO ’ s Stephen , who said that media and social media attention have helped .
“ The governments have also been very transparent , ” and have reported cases as soon as they are detected , she said .
Several African governments have already closed borders , including Chad and Gabon , or have suspended official travel .
The most likely reason Africa has such a low number of cases is because of the low volume of contact between the continent and the world , including fewer planes and people coming here @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the non-governmental organization the Alliance for International Medical Action , known as ALIMA .
However , he warned , it ’ s only a matter of time until Africa catches up in cases and the result could be a higher mortality rate .
“ The worries are very high because in a certain number of countries , particularly in sub-Saharan Africa , the health systems are already weak ... so if the outbreak is happening as well in these areas , we can expect a much higher mortality rate than in Europe @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Despite all the preparations being made by governments , “ The most serious cases will not have access to the people and quality of care that they deserve and could expect elsewhere , '' he said .
`` At one point this crisis will endanger the capacity of humanitarian and relief organizations.
” More importantly , a global strategy needs to be found , he stressed , saying that if it hits hard in Africa , it will only circle back to the US and Europe .
Dr. Jean-Jacques Muyembe , who has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , warned that even with preparation COVID-19 presents major challenges .
If the virus spreads locally and circulates in places like Congo where there are not as many prevention methods , “ we ’ re going to face huge problems.
” '' It would be a mistake to minimize the disease ... we must take this very seriously and do everything so that the chains of transmission are known so that we stop its expansion .
”

Cases of the new coronavirus are ramping up in Africa, with six new countries announcing confirmed infections in the past 24 hours.
People stand in an aisle to buy liquid soaps after the stock of disinfectants ran out at supermarkets in Nairobi, Kenya on March 13, 2020.
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Across Africa, at least 17 of the continent's 54 countries have now registered COVID-19 cases. The majority of these cases are imported, authorities say.
On Friday, Kenya, Guinea and Ethiopia reported their first cases, while Gabon and Ghana did so late Thursday. Sudan also reported its first case, a person who had already died.
Experts warn that on the continent of more than 1.3 billion people, containment is key as Africa's already strained health systems could likely lead to a higher mortality rate and deeper crisis that would have global impact.
>> Read more: Is Africa, with its low rates so far, ready to face the coronavirus pandemic?
African countries only began reporting cases in February, and most have been imported by travelers from Europe and the US.
South Africa announced eight new cases Friday, bringing its total to 24. Amid growing worry across the country, the military is preparing to repatriate 121 South African students from the epicenter of the outbreak, Wuhan, China. The returned students and the military on the flight will immediately be placed in quarantine.
Africa has so far been good at containing the virus because they have detected cases early, said Dr. Mary Stephen, technical officer at the World Health Organization regional office in Brazzaville, Republic of Congo.
The continent’s numbers are low compared to the US, Europe and especially Asia, where the virus originated, but experts and foundations warn that the emergence of COVID-19 on the African continent could be catastrophic given the fragile health systems in several countries.
“From the beginning we knew the continent is at risk,” Stephen told The Associated Press.“The uniqueness of Africa is the fact that one, we have a large population,” she said, adding that the continent's health systems are “dealing with a lot of other emergencies at the same time”, including Ebola.
The goal is to detect cases quickly, isolate and manage them, she said. “We want to prevent community transmission,” she said.
'Very transparent'
The vast majority of people recover from the new virus. The number of COVID-19 cases worldwide has surpassed 120,000, and 60,000 people have already recovered. According to the World Health Organization, people with mild illness recover in about two weeks, while those with more severe illness may take three to six weeks to recover.
Africa's hospitals may not be adequately prepared to care for large numbers of people who may need intensive care and ventilators, say health experts.
At the start of the outbreak only two African countries had the capacity to test for COVID-19 and now 43 countries have laboratories to detect cases, according to the Africa CDC, based in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. It says all the labs have kits to carry out 100 to 200 tests. The WHO and CDC are prepared to provide additional kits for 1,000 tests to any country reporting a case.
Communication has been essential, according to the WHO’s Stephen, who said that media and social media attention have helped.
“The governments have also been very transparent,” and have reported cases as soon as they are detected, she said.
Several African governments have already closed borders, including Chad and Gabon, or have suspended official travel.
Low volume of contact
The most likely reason Africa has such a low number of cases is because of the low volume of contact between the continent and the world, including fewer planes and people coming here, said Augustin Augier, executive director of the non-governmental organization the Alliance for International Medical Action, known as ALIMA.
However, he warned, it’s only a matter of time until Africa catches up in cases and the result could be a higher mortality rate.
“The worries are very high because in a certain number of countries, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, the health systems are already weak ... so if the outbreak is happening as well in these areas, we can expect a much higher mortality rate than in Europe or Asia,” he said.
Despite all the preparations being made by governments, “The most serious cases will not have access to the people and quality of care that they deserve and could expect elsewhere," he said. "At one point this crisis will endanger the capacity of humanitarian and relief organizations.”
More importantly, a global strategy needs to be found, he stressed, saying that if it hits hard in Africa, it will only circle back to the US and Europe.
Dr. Jean-Jacques Muyembe, who has headed Congo’s response to Ebola, warned that even with preparation COVID-19 presents major challenges.
If the virus spreads locally and circulates in places like Congo where there are not as many prevention methods, “we’re going to face huge problems.”
"It would be a mistake to minimize the disease ... we must take this very seriously and do everything so that the chains of transmission are known so that we stop its expansion.”
(FRANCE 24 with AP)
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france24--2020-03-13--British football shut down as Arsenal manager, Chelsea player test positive for coronavirus

The logo of Chelsea Football Club is pictured on a closed gate at Stamford Bridge football stadium in London on March 13 , 2020 .
The English Premier League suspended all fixtures until April 4 on Friday after Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta and Chelsea winger Callum Hudson-Odoi tested positive for coronavirus .
Matches in the English Football League , Women 's Super League , all football in Scotland and international friendlies for England and Wales have also been suspended .
`` Following a meeting of shareholders today , it was unanimously decided to suspend the Premier League with the intention @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to medical advice and conditions at the time , '' the Premier League said in a statement .
Everton also announced a player is in self-isolation for seven days after reporting a high temperature .
The rest of their first-team squad and coaching staff have been told to stay away from all of the Merseyside club 's sites .
Leicester City had three players go into self-isolation on Thursday and Bournemouth said goalkeeper Artur Boruc and four staff members were taking the same precaution .
West Ham staff are also self-isolating as they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at the Emirates .
`` Above all , we wish Mikel Arteta and Callum Hudson-Odoi speedy recoveries , and everyone else affected by COVID-19 , '' said Premier League Chief Executive Richard Masters .
`` In this unprecedented situation , we are working closely with our clubs , Government , The FA and EFL and can reassure everyone the health and welfare of players , staff and supporters are our priority . ''
Liverpool 's Klopp : 'We do it no questions asked' Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp commended the decision despite it halting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ league title in 30 years .
`` We do n't want to play in front of an empty stadium and we do n't want games or competitions suspended , but if doing so helps one individual stay healthy - just one - we do it no questions asked , '' he said .
The English Football League , which heads up the three divisions below the Premier League , and Women 's Super League will be suspended until April 3 at the earliest .
England 's two friendly matches at home to Italy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ postponed as have Wales games against Austria and the US .
The fifth-tier National League will continue but said in a statement it `` will keep the operation of its competition under constant and diligent review , and will remain in compliance with government advice at all times . ''
The authorities still hope to be able to resume and complete the season at a later date .
`` Despite the challenges , it is the Premier League 's aim to reschedule the displaced fixtures , including those played by Academy sides , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' added the Premier League statement .
British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said on Thursday the government was considering the question of banning major public events such as sporting fixtures , but was not ready to do so yet .
However , the news of Arteta and Hudson-Odoi 's positive tests in the last 24 hours forced the English football authorities to act .
`` I do n't think we had any great leadership last night listening to the prime minister .
I was totally underwhelmed by the lack of leadership and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said in that press conference , '' said Watford manager Nigel Pearson .
Hudson-Odoi said he had already `` recovered '' from the virus but will continue to self-isolate .
`` As you may be aware I had the virus for the last couple of days , which I 've recovered from , '' the England international posted in a video on social media .
`` I 'm following the health guidelines and self-isolated myself from everybody for the week .
I hope to be back on the pitch very soon . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's Old Firm derby between Rangers and Celtic , have also been indefinitely suspended .
`` Today 's announcement is made in the interests of public health but , equally , the health and safety of players , match officials , and staff across the game , '' said Ian Maxwell , Scottish FA Chief Executive .
`` It is also why the Scottish FA is compelled to ensure that the suspension is cascaded through the non-professional and grassroots games until further notice . ''
UEFA , European football 's governing body , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ League games for the coming week and will have a crisis meeting on Tuesday to determine the fate of those competitions and Euro 2020 .

The English Premier League suspended all fixtures until April 4 on Friday after Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta and Chelsea winger Callum Hudson-Odoi tested positive for coronavirus.
The logo of Chelsea Football Club is pictured on a closed gate at Stamford Bridge football stadium in London on March 13, 2020.
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Matches in the English Football League, Women's Super League, all football in Scotland and international friendlies for England and Wales have also been suspended.
"Following a meeting of shareholders today, it was unanimously decided to suspend the Premier League with the intention of returning on 4 April, subject to medical advice and conditions at the time," the Premier League said in a statement.
Everton also announced a player is in self-isolation for seven days after reporting a high temperature.
The rest of their first-team squad and coaching staff have been told to stay away from all of the Merseyside club's sites.
Leicester City had three players go into self-isolation on Thursday and Bournemouth said goalkeeper Artur Boruc and four staff members were taking the same precaution.
West Ham staff are also self-isolating as they faced Arteta's Arsenal six days ago at the Emirates.
"Above all, we wish Mikel Arteta and Callum Hudson-Odoi speedy recoveries, and everyone else affected by COVID-19," said Premier League Chief Executive Richard Masters.
"In this unprecedented situation, we are working closely with our clubs, Government, The FA and EFL and can reassure everyone the health and welfare of players, staff and supporters are our priority."
Liverpool's Klopp: 'We do it no questions asked'
Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp commended the decision despite it halting his side's cruise towards a first league title in 30 years.
"We don't want to play in front of an empty stadium and we don't want games or competitions suspended, but if doing so helps one individual stay healthy - just one - we do it no questions asked," he said.
The English Football League, which heads up the three divisions below the Premier League, and Women's Super League will be suspended until April 3 at the earliest.
England's two friendly matches at home to Italy and Denmark later this month have been postponed as have Wales games against Austria and the US.
The fifth-tier National League will continue but said in a statement it "will keep the operation of its competition under constant and diligent review, and will remain in compliance with government advice at all times."
The authorities still hope to be able to resume and complete the season at a later date.
"Despite the challenges, it is the Premier League's aim to reschedule the displaced fixtures, including those played by Academy sides, when it is safe to do so," added the Premier League statement.
'Lack of leadership'
British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said on Thursday the government was considering the question of banning major public events such as sporting fixtures, but was not ready to do so yet.
However, the news of Arteta and Hudson-Odoi's positive tests in the last 24 hours forced the English football authorities to act.
"I don't think we had any great leadership last night listening to the prime minister. I was totally underwhelmed by the lack of leadership and clear message in terms of what was said in that press conference," said Watford manager Nigel Pearson.
Hudson-Odoi said he had already "recovered" from the virus but will continue to self-isolate.
"As you may be aware I had the virus for the last couple of days, which I've recovered from," the England international posted in a video on social media.
"I'm following the health guidelines and self-isolated myself from everybody for the week. I hope to be back on the pitch very soon."
All matches in Scotland, including Sunday's Old Firm derby between Rangers and Celtic, have also been indefinitely suspended.
"Today's announcement is made in the interests of public health but, equally, the health and safety of players, match officials, and staff across the game," said Ian Maxwell, Scottish FA Chief Executive.
"It is also why the Scottish FA is compelled to ensure that the suspension is cascaded through the non-professional and grassroots games until further notice."
UEFA, European football's governing body, has postponed all Champions League and Europa League games for the coming week and will have a crisis meeting on Tuesday to determine the fate of those competitions and Euro 2020.
(AFP)
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france24--2020-03-13--French finance minister takes Trump to task over coronavirus border closing

Describing US President Donald Trump ’ s decision to close US borders to EU citizens as an “ aberration ” , Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire said the move had triggered a historic sell-off on Thursday that saw shares in many of France ’ s top companies collapse .
“ We will help all companies in which the state has a stake , Air France , Renault , ” Le Maire said on French television channel BFM TV .
“ Whatever it costs we will be at their side and will support them , ” he added without detailing how @ @ @ @ @ @ @ He put the growing cost of measures to soften the economic fallout at “ dozens of billions ” .
While Air France-KLM and Renault have been hit hard in the sell-off , so has airport operator ADP , which the government had hoped to reduce its stake in .
Le Maire said the market conditions were far from opportune for that .
Other big companies in which the state holds a stake such as energy group EDF , utility Engie and defence group Thales have been less impacted .
So far the French @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mid-sized companies with a series of measures ranging from state-financed short work time scheme for workers whose hours are cut to loan guarantees for small firms struggling with cashflow problems .
“ At the end of the day , it will cost dozens of billions of euros .
That 's how much we can expect , ” Le Maire said , giving the clearest picture yet how much the crisis would cost the government finances .
Le Maire ’ s German counterpart Olaf Scholz has suggested increasing public investment in infrastructure by €12 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ proposed pulling forward the already agreed abolition of an income tax surcharge by six months at a cost of some €5 billion .
Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte , whose country is the worst-hit in Europe , pledged this week to ramp up spending by allocating €25 billion to support firms and families .

Describing US President Donald Trump’s decision to close US borders to EU citizens as an “aberration”, Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire said the move had triggered a historic sell-off on Thursday that saw shares in many of France’s top companies collapse.
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“We will help all companies in which the state has a stake, Air France, Renault,” Le Maire said on French television channel BFM TV.
“Whatever it costs we will be at their side and will support them,” he added without detailing how the government could help such companies. He put the growing cost of measures to soften the economic fallout at “dozens of billions”.
While Air France-KLM and Renault have been hit hard in the sell-off, so has airport operator ADP, which the government had hoped to reduce its stake in. Le Maire said the market conditions were far from opportune for that.
Other big companies in which the state holds a stake such as energy group EDF, utility Engie and defence group Thales have been less impacted.
So far the French government has focused on helping small and mid-sized companies with a series of measures ranging from state-financed short work time scheme for workers whose hours are cut to loan guarantees for small firms struggling with cashflow problems.
“At the end of the day, it will cost dozens of billions of euros. That's how much we can expect,” Le Maire said, giving the clearest picture yet how much the crisis would cost the government finances.
Le Maire’s German counterpart Olaf Scholz has suggested increasing public investment in infrastructure by €12 billion until 2024. He has also proposed pulling forward the already agreed abolition of an income tax surcharge by six months at a cost of some €5 billion.
Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte, whose country is the worst-hit in Europe, pledged this week to ramp up spending by allocating €25 billion to support firms and families.
(FRANCE 24 with REUTERS)
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france24--2020-03-13--French local elections: One town, zero candidates

The village of Châtenois in the Haute-Saône department has no candidates for the upcoming French local elections .
France votes in the first round of local elections on Sunday , March 15 , but in the village of Châtenois , in the Haute-Saône department , the voting booths will remain closed .
Like 105 other towns across France , this village of 130 people has been unable to find anyone willing to run for mayor and now risks losing its political independence .
“ It ’ s true that after 12 years , it wears you out a bit , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Châtenois since 2008 .
For more than a year , the 73-year-old has made it clear that he will not be seeking another term .
The problem is no one has put themselves forward to take his place .
As such , the first round of voting in the town has been cancelled .
The second round , on March 22 , is still set to go ahead for now , in the hope that a candidate will emerge in the interval .
If that fails to happen , the village will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ its affairs will be managed by a delegation from the regional prefecture , in which to find candidates and reorganise an election .
If there is still no one to take Coulin ’ s place , the village will cease to exist as an administrative entity and be merged with another .
`` To see Châtenois disappear would be heartbreaking , '' says Coulin .
It is a problem that is becoming increasingly common in France .
This year , 106 towns and villages have so far failed to find electoral candidates , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on the player to watch the full report .

France votes in the first round of local elections on Sunday, March 15, but in the village of Châtenois, in the Haute-Saône department, the voting booths will remain closed. Like 105 other towns across France, this village of 130 people has been unable to find anyone willing to run for mayor and now risks losing its political independence.
The village of Châtenois in the Haute-Saône department has no candidates for the upcoming French local elections.
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“It’s true that after 12 years, it wears you out a bit,” says Victor Coulin, the mayor of Châtenois since 2008.
For more than a year, the 73-year-old has made it clear that he will not be seeking another term. The problem is no one has put themselves forward to take his place.
As such, the first round of voting in the town has been cancelled. The second round, on March 22, is still set to go ahead for now, in the hope that a candidate will emerge in the interval.
If that fails to happen, the village will have three months, during which time its affairs will be managed by a delegation from the regional prefecture, in which to find candidates and reorganise an election.
If there is still no one to take Coulin’s place, the village will cease to exist as an administrative entity and be merged with another.
"To see Châtenois disappear would be heartbreaking," says Coulin.
It is a problem that is becoming increasingly common in France. This year, 106 towns and villages have so far failed to find electoral candidates, up from 62 in 2014.
Click on the player to watch the full report.
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france24--2020-03-13--Brazil’s Yanomami people victims of illegal gold rush in Amazon rainforest

In the northern Brazilian state of Roraima , more and more illegal gold miners are invading indigenous land .
This gold rush comes with the blessing of Brazil 's President Jair Bolsonaro .
Our reporters Fanny Lothaire and Laura Damase investigated the illegal activities and met the Yanomami Indians who are fighting to defend their ancestral land in the Amazon rainforest .
`` There are 20,000 invaders on our land today !
We are constantly afraid , '' Marinaldo , a Yanomami Indian chief , explains from his threatened reserve .
His land is located in Roraima state in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the middle of the Amazon rainforest .
The Yanomami – `` human beings '' in their ancestral language – have feared for their lives since 2011 and the invasion of the `` garimpeiros ” , illegal gold miners who come to extract the precious metal hidden under a layer of Amazonian flora and fauna .
Gold has become a major export of Roraima state , even though not a single legal mine is operating .
> > Focus : `` In French Guiana , gold mining accused of role in destroying Amazon rainforest @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Roraima state , jewellery stores and shops selling raw gold are widespread .
The federal police have arrested a few retailers to keep up appearances , but gold businesses are well established despite being completely illegal .
In the city ’ s streets , we also meet dozens of Yanomami : whole families who have resolved to leave their land amid the danger and now endure a miserable existence .
In his fiery speech at the UN General Assembly in September 2019 , Bolsonaro insisted that the Amazon was not the heritage @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he fully intends to legalise mining in these remote territories .
Click on the player to watch the full programme .

In the northern Brazilian state of Roraima, more and more illegal gold miners are invading indigenous land. This gold rush comes with the blessing of Brazil's President Jair Bolsonaro. Our reporters Fanny Lothaire and Laura Damase investigated the illegal activities and met the Yanomami Indians who are fighting to defend their ancestral land in the Amazon rainforest.
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"There are 20,000 invaders on our land today! We are constantly afraid," Marinaldo, a Yanomami Indian chief, explains from his threatened reserve. His land is located in Roraima state in the far north of Brazil, right in the middle of the Amazon rainforest.
The Yanomami – "human beings" in their ancestral language – have feared for their lives since 2011 and the invasion of the "garimpeiros”, illegal gold miners who come to extract the precious metal hidden under a layer of Amazonian flora and fauna. Gold has become a major export of Roraima state, even though not a single legal mine is operating.
>> Focus: "In French Guiana, gold mining accused of role in destroying Amazon rainforest"
In Boa Vista, the capital of Roraima state, jewellery stores and shops selling raw gold are widespread. The federal police have arrested a few retailers to keep up appearances, but gold businesses are well established despite being completely illegal.
In the city’s streets, we also meet dozens of Yanomami: whole families who have resolved to leave their land amid the danger and now endure a miserable existence.
In his fiery speech at the UN General Assembly in September 2019, Bolsonaro insisted that the Amazon was not the heritage of humankind. During his mandate, he fully intends to legalise mining in these remote territories.
>> Encore!: Indigenous Brazil: Claudia Andujar and the Yanomami struggle
Click on the player to watch the full programme.
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france24--2020-03-14--WHO declares Europe the new 'epicenter' of coronavirus as nations close borders

Medical staff wear protective clothing during sanitation checks at Jedrzychowice border crossing between Poland and Germany on March 9 , 2020 .
Countries around the world on Saturday continued to close borders , impose strict entry and quarantine requirements and restrict large gatherings in efforts to contain the spread of the new coronavirus .
Apple Inc said it will close all its retail stores worldwide , outside Greater China , until March 27 .
Apple reopened all 42 of its branded stores in China on Friday as the spread of the virus on mainland China slowed dramatically .
Countries have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ events to minimise the risk of coronavirus transmission , with more than 138,000 people worldwide infected and more than 5,000 dead .
Colombia said it will close its borders with Venezuela and stop visitors who have been in Europe or Asia , while a U.S. ban on entry for most people from continental Europe was due to start midnight Friday .
The World Health Organization ( WHO ) says Europe has become the pandemic ’ s current epicentre after reporting more cases and deaths than the rest of world combined , apart from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Saudi Arabia will suspend all international flights for two weeks , starting Sunday , state news agency SPA said , Taiwan will require travellers from mainland Europe , Britain and Ireland to self-isolate for 14 days , while New Zealand implemented a similar measure for all those entering the country .
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern also called on cruise ships , a major source of infections in some countries , not to come to New Zealand until June 30 .
“ Alongside Israel , and a small number of Pacific Islands who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ decision will mean New Zealand will have the widest ranging and toughest border restrictions of any country in the world , ” she said .
The country has just six confirmed cases and has had no deaths , but Ardern said that number inevitably would rise .
“ That is why ultimately , we must go hard and we must go early , ” she told reporters .
Chilean President Sebastian Pinera announced a ban on public events with more than 500 people on Friday , joining countries such as Australia where the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Britain will introduce emergency laws next week to ban mass gatherings , said a government source , an escalation of its crisis plan which critics had said was too relaxed .
The Philippines capital Manila , home to 12 million people , announced nighttime curfews on Saturday and urged shopping malls to close for one month .
“ To limit the spread of the virus , we need to limit the movement of people .
We are slowing down the movement of people in Metro Manila , ” said Jose Arturo Garcia @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Development Authority .
While infections continue to climb around the world , in mainland China the number of new cases is falling .
The number of new coronavirus cases imported into mainland China from overseas surpassed the number of locally transmitted new infections for the first time on Friday , data released by the National Health Commission showed on Saturday .
Mainland China had 11 new confirmed cases on Friday , up from eight cases a day earlier , but only four of those - all in the virus epicentre of Hubei province @ @ @ @ @ @ @ now seen new infections fall for nine straight days .
All four of the new cases on Friday , down from five a day earlier , were in provincial capital Wuhan .
The flu-like virus has infected 80,824 people in mainland China , the commission said .
In a bid to limit the economic damage from a pandemic that has infected the U.S. House of Representatives passed an aid package that would provide free testing and paid sick leave .
The U.S. military said it will halt most domestic travel , extending earlier @ @ @ @ @ @ @ than a million active-duty troops around the world .
Travel bans have hammered airlines and travel companies worldwide , while financial markets have been hit by panic selling this week .
The impact of the coronavirus on everyday life is also deepening .
The Czech government will shut most shops and restaurants from early Saturday , with exceptions including food stores , pharmacies and gas stations .
In Paris , the Eiffel Tower , the Louvre museum and the Moulin Rouge cabaret closed their doors .
The Smithsonian museums in Washington were preparing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ theatres in New York went dark .
The kissing of the Blarney Stone , one of Ireland ’ s oldest tourist traditions , was suspended .
The global sporting calendar has also been left in tatters with major tournaments cancelled , postponed or forced to continue without spectators .
But sport ’ s biggest showpiece , the Olympics , will still proceed as planned , according to Tokyo organizers .

Countries around the world on Saturday continued to close borders, impose strict entry and quarantine requirements and restrict large gatherings in efforts to contain the spread of the new coronavirus.
Medical staff wear protective clothing during sanitation checks at Jedrzychowice border crossing between Poland and Germany on March 9, 2020.
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Apple Inc said it will close all its retail stores worldwide, outside Greater China, until March 27. Apple reopened all 42 of its branded stores in China on Friday as the spread of the virus on mainland China slowed dramatically.
Countries have shuttered museums, tourist attractions and sporting events to minimise the risk of coronavirus transmission, with more than 138,000 people worldwide infected and more than 5,000 dead.
Colombia said it will close its borders with Venezuela and stop visitors who have been in Europe or Asia, while a U.S. ban on entry for most people from continental Europe was due to start midnight Friday.
The World Health Organization (WHO) says Europe has become the pandemic’s current epicentre after reporting more cases and deaths than the rest of world combined, apart from China where the coronavirus originated last December.
01:30
Saudi Arabia will suspend all international flights for two weeks, starting Sunday, state news agency SPA said, Taiwan will require travellers from mainland Europe, Britain and Ireland to self-isolate for 14 days, while New Zealand implemented a similar measure for all those entering the country.
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern also called on cruise ships, a major source of infections in some countries, not to come to New Zealand until June 30.
“Alongside Israel, and a small number of Pacific Islands who have effectively closed their border, this decision will mean New Zealand will have the widest ranging and toughest border restrictions of any country in the world,” she said.
The country has just six confirmed cases and has had no deaths, but Ardern said that number inevitably would rise.
“That is why ultimately, we must go hard and we must go early,” she told reporters.
Chilean President Sebastian Pinera announced a ban on public events with more than 500 people on Friday, joining countries such as Australia where the ban will come into force on Monday.
Britain will introduce emergency laws next week to ban mass gatherings, said a government source, an escalation of its crisis plan which critics had said was too relaxed.
The Philippines capital Manila, home to 12 million people, announced nighttime curfews on Saturday and urged shopping malls to close for one month.
“To limit the spread of the virus, we need to limit the movement of people. We are slowing down the movement of people in Metro Manila,” said Jose Arturo Garcia, general manager of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority.
China new infections falling
While infections continue to climb around the world, in mainland China the number of new cases is falling.
The number of new coronavirus cases imported into mainland China from overseas surpassed the number of locally transmitted new infections for the first time on Friday, data released by the National Health Commission showed on Saturday.
Mainland China had 11 new confirmed cases on Friday, up from eight cases a day earlier, but only four of those - all in the virus epicentre of Hubei province - were locally transmitted.
Hubei has now seen new infections fall for nine straight days. All four of the new cases on Friday, down from five a day earlier, were in provincial capital Wuhan.
The flu-like virus has infected 80,824 people in mainland China, the commission said.
Shops, sport, museums shutter
In a bid to limit the economic damage from a pandemic that has infected the U.S. House of Representatives passed an aid package that would provide free testing and paid sick leave.
The U.S. military said it will halt most domestic travel, extending earlier restrictions on international travel for its more than a million active-duty troops around the world.
Travel bans have hammered airlines and travel companies worldwide, while financial markets have been hit by panic selling this week.
The impact of the coronavirus on everyday life is also deepening.
The Czech government will shut most shops and restaurants from early Saturday, with exceptions including food stores, pharmacies and gas stations.
🇬🇧 In the context of the #COVID19 outbreak and due to the government health measures announced today, the #EiffelTower closes today, from 9pm, for an indefinite period of time. pic.twitter.com/0BnTZgSN9g — La tour Eiffel (@LaTourEiffel) March 13, 2020
In Paris, the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre museum and the Moulin Rouge cabaret closed their doors. The Smithsonian museums in Washington were preparing to do so on Saturday and Broadway theatres in New York went dark.
The kissing of the Blarney Stone, one of Ireland’s oldest tourist traditions, was suspended.
The global sporting calendar has also been left in tatters with major tournaments cancelled, postponed or forced to continue without spectators.
But sport’s biggest showpiece, the Olympics, will still proceed as planned, according to Tokyo organizers.
(REUTERS)
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france24--2020-03-14--Canadian, Italian kidnapped in Burkina Faso in 2018 released in Mali

In this file handout photograph released on January 17 , 2019 , from the Facebook page dedicated to their disappearance , Luca Tacchetto ( L ) and Edith Blais pose for a selfie at an unknown location .
A Canadian woman and Italian man kidnapped in Burkina Faso in December 2018 have been released to the United Nations ’ peacekeeping mission in neighbouring Mali and appear to be in good health , a mission spokesman said on Saturday .
Edith Blais and Luca Tacchetto went missing while travelling through Burkina Faso , a country where jihadist groups with links to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are active .
UN mission spokesman Olivier Salgado told Reuters that Blais and Tacchetto were received by peacekeepers on Friday evening and would be handed over to Malian authorities later on Saturday .
“ UN blue helmets found an Italian citizen and a Canadian citizen near Kidal , who had been taken hostage in Burkina territory in 2018 , ” a security official from the UN mission in Mali , MINUSMA , told AFP .
“ Both are well .
They are under our protection .
They will be transferred to Bamako on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ respective countries , ” the security official said .
Blais , from Quebec , and her partner Tacchetto , from Venice , disappeared in mid-December 2018 while travelling through the west African country .
The couple , who are both in their 30s , were driving by car to Ouagadougou from Bobo-Dioulasso , more than 360 kilometres west of the capital , when all trace of them was lost , according to Blais ’ s family .
They had been planning to go to Togo to work on a humanitarian project .
In @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said the two had been abducted and probably taken out of the country , but that they were not in any danger .
It is not known who was responsible for kidnapping the pair .

A Canadian woman and Italian man kidnapped in Burkina Faso in December 2018 have been released to the United Nations’ peacekeeping mission in neighbouring Mali and appear to be in good health, a mission spokesman said on Saturday.
In this file handout photograph released on January 17, 2019, from the Facebook page dedicated to their disappearance, Luca Tacchetto (L) and Edith Blais pose for a selfie at an unknown location.
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Edith Blais and Luca Tacchetto went missing while travelling through Burkina Faso, a country where jihadist groups with links to al Qaeda and the Islamic State group are active.
UN mission spokesman Olivier Salgado told Reuters that Blais and Tacchetto were received by peacekeepers on Friday evening and would be handed over to Malian authorities later on Saturday.
“UN blue helmets found an Italian citizen and a Canadian citizen near Kidal, who had been taken hostage in Burkina territory in 2018,” a security official from the UN mission in Mali, MINUSMA, told AFP.
“Both are well. They are under our protection. They will be transferred to Bamako on Saturday and then flown home to their respective countries,” the security official said.
Blais, from Quebec, and her partner Tacchetto, from Venice, disappeared in mid-December 2018 while travelling through the west African country.
The couple, who are both in their 30s, were driving by car to Ouagadougou from Bobo-Dioulasso, more than 360 kilometres west of the capital, when all trace of them was lost, according to Blais’s family.
They had been planning to go to Togo to work on a humanitarian project.
Le petit check covid-19 du ministre des affaires étrangères malien, Tiébilé Dramé pour Édith Blais, ex otage, tout juste libérée après 1 an et 3 mois de captivité au Mali 😊
Photo @UN_MINUSMA pic.twitter.com/j4N5Nv3nLe — Anthony Fouchard (@AnthonyFouchard) March 14, 2020
In April 2019, a Burkina government spokesman said the two had been abducted and probably taken out of the country, but that they were not in any danger.
It is not known who was responsible for kidnapping the pair.
(FRANCE 24 with AFP and REUTERS)
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france24--2020-03-14--List of African countries with coronavirus grows as Kenya, Ethiopia, Sudan report cases

Liquid soaps are sold at a supermarkets in Nairobi after the announcement of the first coronavirus case in Kenya , March 13 , 2020 .
Kenya , Ethiopia , Sudan , Guinea and Mauritania all confirmed their first cases of the new coronavirus on Friday , giving the disease a foothold in 19 countries on the African continent .
Africa had until now largely been spared the rapid spread of COVID-19 , which has infected at least 135,000 people and killed around 5,000 worldwide .
Most of Africa ’ s reported cases were foreigners or people who had travelled abroad @ @ @ @ @ @ @ put in place to limit transmission .
But concerns are growing about the continent ’ s ability to handle the disease .
Cases have been reported in Morocco , Tunisia , Egypt , Algeria , Senegal , Togo , Cameroon , Burkina Faso , Democratic Republic of Congo , South Africa , Nigeria , Ivory Coast , Gabon , Ghana , Guinea , Sudan , Kenya and Ethiopia .
Mauritania ’ s health ministry said late on Friday that its first coronavirus patient is a European man - nationality not specified - who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and had since been in quarantine .
The numbers of cases in most of the countries are still in single figures .
Senegal confirmed 11 new cases on Friday , raising the total in that West African nation to 21 .
Its health ministry said 16 had been infected by the same man who had returned from Italy .
Among those confirming first cases on Friday , Kenya is the richest economy in East Africa and a hub for global companies and the United Nations , while Ethiopia is Africa ’ s second-most @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Addis Ababa and Nairobi are regional transit hubs .
In Nairobi , the Kenyan authorities banned all major public events and said they would restrict foreign travel .
The mayor of Addis Ababa urged citizens to avoid close personal contact but Ethiopia ’ s health minister said there were no plans to cancel flights .
Kenyan Health Minister Mutahi Kagwe said the country ’ s first case , a 27-year-old Kenyan , was diagnosed on Thursday after travelling home via London on March 5 .
He said the government had traced most @ @ @ @ @ @ @ contact with , including fellow passengers on her flight , and a government response team would monitor their temperatures for the next two weeks .
The Ethiopian case was a 48-year old Japanese national who arrived in Ethiopia on March 4 , the health ministry said .
Guinea ’ s first case was an employee of the European Union delegation who had self-isolated after she felt ill upon returning from Europe , the EU delegation said .
Sudan ’ s first confirmed coronavirus case was a man who died on Thursday in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said .
He had visited the United Arab Emirates in the first week of March .
Kenyan Health Minister Mutahi Kagwe said the government had suspended all public gatherings , sporting events , open-air religious meetings and events “ of a huge public nature ” .
Schools will remain open but inter-school events were suspended .
Public transport operators must install hand sanitisers in their vehicles and clean them regularly , Kagwe said , while foreign travel would be restricted .
Soon after the announcement , shoppers in one Nairobi supermarket were buying @ @ @ @ @ @ @ maize flour and water , as well as hand sanitisers and soap .
Kenya Airways suspended flights to China last month and on Thursday added Rome and Geneva to the list of suspended destinations .
Kenya , which relies heavily on Asian imports , has seen disruptions to its supply chain and a decline in tourism , an important source of hard currency and jobs .
“ We are going to be hit badly , ” Tourism Minister Najib Balala told journalists .
The Nairobi Securities Exchange halted trading in the afternoon after @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by more than 5 % following the news .
Mauritius , an island nation off the coast of East Africa whose economy depends on tourism and financial services , has yet to report any COVID-19 cases but said it was offering liquidity to banks to support struggling firms hit by the impact of the virus and cutting banks ’ cash reserve requirements .

Kenya, Ethiopia, Sudan, Guinea and Mauritania all confirmed their first cases of the new coronavirus on Friday, giving the disease a foothold in 19 countries on the African continent.
Liquid soaps are sold at a supermarkets in Nairobi after the announcement of the first coronavirus case in Kenya, March 13, 2020.
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Africa had until now largely been spared the rapid spread of COVID-19, which has infected at least 135,000 people and killed around 5,000 worldwide.
Most of Africa’s reported cases were foreigners or people who had travelled abroad. Rapid testing and quarantines have been put in place to limit transmission.
But concerns are growing about the continent’s ability to handle the disease.
Cases have been reported in Morocco, Tunisia, Egypt, Algeria, Senegal, Togo, Cameroon, Burkina Faso, Democratic Republic of Congo, South Africa, Nigeria, Ivory Coast, Gabon, Ghana, Guinea, Sudan, Kenya and Ethiopia.
Mauritania’s health ministry said late on Friday that its first coronavirus patient is a European man - nationality not specified - who had returned to Nouakchott on March 9 and had since been in quarantine.
The numbers of cases in most of the countries are still in single figures.
Senegal confirmed 11 new cases on Friday, raising the total in that West African nation to 21. Its health ministry said 16 had been infected by the same man who had returned from Italy.
Among those confirming first cases on Friday, Kenya is the richest economy in East Africa and a hub for global companies and the United Nations, while Ethiopia is Africa’s second-most populous nation, with 109 million people. Addis Ababa and Nairobi are regional transit hubs.
In Nairobi, the Kenyan authorities banned all major public events and said they would restrict foreign travel. The mayor of Addis Ababa urged citizens to avoid close personal contact but Ethiopia’s health minister said there were no plans to cancel flights.
Travellers fall sick
Kenyan Health Minister Mutahi Kagwe said the country’s first case, a 27-year-old Kenyan, was diagnosed on Thursday after travelling home via London on March 5.
He said the government had traced most of the people she had been in contact with, including fellow passengers on her flight, and a government response team would monitor their temperatures for the next two weeks.
Today, #Kenya announced their first case of #COVID19. The patient is a Kenyan national who arrived in Nairobi on 5 March from the USA. @WHO has been working with the Kenyan gov't to prepare. This week, WHO experts trained hospital staff in Nairobi on protective equipment. pic.twitter.com/zQBWaJQAd7 — WHO African Region (@WHOAFRO) March 13, 2020
The Ethiopian case was a 48-year old Japanese national who arrived in Ethiopia on March 4, the health ministry said.
Guinea’s first case was an employee of the European Union delegation who had self-isolated after she felt ill upon returning from Europe, the EU delegation said.
Sudan’s first confirmed coronavirus case was a man who died on Thursday in the Sudanese capital Khartoum, the Health Ministry said. He had visited the United Arab Emirates in the first week of March.
Halting the spread
Kenyan Health Minister Mutahi Kagwe said the government had suspended all public gatherings, sporting events, open-air religious meetings and events “of a huge public nature”. Schools will remain open but inter-school events were suspended.
Public transport operators must install hand sanitisers in their vehicles and clean them regularly, Kagwe said, while foreign travel would be restricted.
Soon after the announcement, shoppers in one Nairobi supermarket were buying up cart loads of staples such as maize flour and water, as well as hand sanitisers and soap.
Kenya Airways suspended flights to China last month and on Thursday added Rome and Geneva to the list of suspended destinations.
Kenya, which relies heavily on Asian imports, has seen disruptions to its supply chain and a decline in tourism, an important source of hard currency and jobs.
“We are going to be hit badly,” Tourism Minister Najib Balala told journalists.
The Nairobi Securities Exchange halted trading in the afternoon after the main NSE 20 share index dropped by more than 5% following the news.
Mauritius, an island nation off the coast of East Africa whose economy depends on tourism and financial services, has yet to report any COVID-19 cases but said it was offering liquidity to banks to support struggling firms hit by the impact of the virus and cutting banks’ cash reserve requirements.
(REUTERS)
Daily newsletterReceive essential international news every morning Subscribe


france24--2020-03-14--Week in Review: Coronavirus sparks fear and hoarding, sexism in France's kitchens and Marie Curie's

Week in Review: Coronavirus sparks fear and hoarding, sexism in France's kitchens and Marie Curie's 'Radioactive' biopic

France votes in municipal elections this weekend that will include electing the mayor of Paris .
We also take a peek behind the scenes at the sexism and harassment that can be prevalent in even the most prestigious kitchens and investigate the anxiety , boredom and feelings of isolation that are on the rise as more people stay home amid fears of the coronavirus .
French voters head to the polls for a first round of voting on March 15 and a second round on March 22 to elect some 35,000 mayors and more than 10 times as many councillors @ @ @ @ @ @ @ epidemic – and President Emmanuel Macron ’ s party is bracing for a beating .
Balkany dynasty : Local power couple manoeuvres to hold on to posh Paris suburb For nearly four decades , Patrick Balkany has been the centre-right mayor of the upscale Paris suburb of Levallois-Perret , with his wife Isabelle often acting as his deputy .
But last year they were convicted of tax fraud and money laundering , resulting in jail sentences and barring them from running in the city ’ s March elections .
They have since named @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and others fear – is a way to prolong the Balkany dynasty .
Mayoral race becomes a referendum on pesticide ban in French village of Langouët The mayor of tiny Langouët became a hero to environmentalists across France last year after unilaterally banning pesticides from his village .
With his mandate up for grabs on Sunday , the election is being billed as a test for ecological activism in rural communities where farmers remain dependent on weedkillers .
Fear , hoarding and Gallic shrugs as French brace for coronavirus epidemic As France considers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 3 and President Emmanuel Macron warned the public that an epidemic was “ inevitable ” , reports of the escalating outbreak were met with fear , hoarding – and complete indifference .
If the # MeToo movement has knocked the sexism out of some professional kitchens around the world , the restaurant sector in France has not followed suit .
We take a look behind the scenes .
Barred by Brexit : France ’ s British elected officials forced to step down Hundreds of incumbent town councillors will not be on the ballot @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they are no longer European Union citizens following Brexit .
Newly ineligible to hold office , British elected officials across the country are being forced to step down .
Video : The daily life of migrants trapped at the Turkey-Greece border Thousands of migrants – most of them from Syria , Afghanistan , Pakistan and Iran – have rushed to the border separating Turkey and Greece after the Turkish government announced in late February that it would no longer stop migrants from crossing into Europe .
Our team spoke to some of those @ @ @ @ @ @ @ living conditions and violent Greek border guards .
Shops were left eerily empty and the labour ministry was particularly hard hit on Monday as Mexico ’ s female population staged a nationwide “ Day Without Us ” strike to protest against gender-based violence and the country 's high rate of femicide .
Life and death decisions under siege : Syrian doctor on ninth anniversary of war It 's now been nine years since the start of the war in Syria – and Syrian civilians are still dying and seeking safety as refugees .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ five years treating patients under the missiles and bombs of the Syrian regime and its Russian backers in Eastern Ghouta .
Dr. Amani Ballour was just 25 years old and fresh out of medical school when the siege began .
Her experiences and eventual evacuation were the subject of a documentary , `` The Cave '' , which was nominated at this year 's Oscars .
Coronavirus consequences : What can policymakers do to save the economy ?
Global growth could be cut in half if the coronavirus outbreak continues to spread , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the options open to policymakers to treat the virus 's economic symptoms ?
We ask veteran market analyst Justin Urquhart Stewart , co-founder of 7 Investment Management , if the stock market volatility is set to last .
And we take a look at the auto industry as the virus hits both suppliers and customers .
Paris City Hall : The race for the top prize in France 's municipal elections In France , the municipal elections are held every six years .
But the most closely-watched race is the vote to win @ @ @ @ @ @ @ There have been some surprises in the race so far , as the president 's chosen candidate Benjamin Griveaux was forced to bow out after a sex video scandal .
Leading in the polls is the incumbent mayor of Paris , the left-leaning Anne Hidalgo .
But not far behind her in another well-known figure in French politics , the right-leaning Rachida Dati .
Stopping to help women who are injured and look distressed at the side of the road , offering food to a hungry child or tea to a parched man @ @ @ @ @ @ @ These acts of compassion are increasingly being treated as crimes across Europe .
Amnesty International has released the results of an investigation into how eight European countries are criminalising compassion , possibly in contravention of international human rights laws .
Anxiety , isolation , boredom : The side effects of coronavirus in China The coronavirus epidemic may be slowing in China , but another problem is taking hold in the country : anxiety .
Fear of being infected by the virus has given way to loneliness and isolation , especially among the residents @ @ @ @ @ @ @ quarantine .
A recent poll puts the number of people suffering from anxiety in China at 42 percent .
For its winter 2020 ready-to-wear collections , Chanel sends both slim and voluptuous models down the catwalk , with black and white women dressed as musketeers .
Balmain rethinks the very concept of the bourgeoisie , while Nigerian designer Kenneth Ize joins his South African colleague Thebe Magugu in turning to his roots for inspiration .
Last but not least , Japanese designers Issey Miyake and Yohji Yamamoto look to the future with a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ field of science and the first woman to win two Nobel prizes , Marie Curie is one of the most important historical figures of the 20th century .
A new biopic starring Rosamund Pike and Sam Riley looks at two defining moments in her life : meeting her husband and lifelong research partner Pierre Curie , and the discovery of the elements polonium and radium .
Music show : The Big Moon on touring their second album and Record Store Day 2020 Despite Brexit and coronavirus fears , London 's indie rock four-piece @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the European leg of their tour .
The Mercury Prize-nominated band – who recently released their second album `` Walking Like We Do '' and toured with veterans The Pixies – popped by the FRANCE 24 studios for a chat and talked about being this year 's Record Store Day ambassadors .
The show also features new releases by French electro duo Telepopmusik , Brighton rockers Porridge Radio and legendary Pulp frontman Jarvis Cocker 's new ( ish ) band Jarv Is .
Indonesia 's tin miners who slave away for the world @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Indonesian island of Bangka , men dig tirelessly at the face of a giant mine .
They 're searching for tin , a metal worth as much as gold to them .
The island supplies a quarter of global production , fulfilling the vast needs of computer and mobile phone giants .
Located east of Sumatra , Bangka was once an island paradise but has now become one gigantic surface mine .
Official mining companies rub shoulders with thousands of illegal miners , risking their lives in the hope of a lucky break @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , with lagoons now devoid of marine life .
YOU ARE HERE The onset of a snowy winter in the French Alps High up in the French Alps , just a few kilometres from the Italian border , winter is taking grip .
Tourists glide down the slopes , while locals hunker down in their remote hamlets for the long and cold months to come .
Those who choose to live here love these mountains despite the icy winters and relative isolation .
We get a glimpse of life for them in this @ @ @

WEEK IN REVIEW
France votes in municipal elections this weekend that will include electing the mayor of Paris. We also take a peek behind the scenes at the sexism and harassment that can be prevalent in even the most prestigious kitchens and investigate the anxiety, boredom and feelings of isolation that are on the rise as more people stay home amid fears of the coronavirus.
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ARTICLES
A guide to France’s municipal elections: Half a million seats and a spoiler virus
French voters head to the polls for a first round of voting on March 15 and a second round on March 22 to elect some 35,000 mayors and more than 10 times as many councillors as the country braces for a coronavirus epidemic – and President Emmanuel Macron’s party is bracing for a beating.
Balkany dynasty: Local power couple manoeuvres to hold on to posh Paris suburb
For nearly four decades, Patrick Balkany has been the centre-right mayor of the upscale Paris suburb of Levallois-Perret, with his wife Isabelle often acting as his deputy. But last year they were convicted of tax fraud and money laundering, resulting in jail sentences and barring them from running in the city’s March elections. They have since named an heir-designate, whom some hope – and others fear – is a way to prolong the Balkany dynasty.
Mayoral race becomes a referendum on pesticide ban in French village of Langouët
The mayor of tiny Langouët became a hero to environmentalists across France last year after unilaterally banning pesticides from his village. With his mandate up for grabs on Sunday, the election is being billed as a test for ecological activism in rural communities where farmers remain dependent on weedkillers.
Fear, hoarding and Gallic shrugs as French brace for coronavirus epidemic
As France considers raising its coronavirus alert level warning to 3 and President Emmanuel Macron warned the public that an epidemic was “inevitable”, reports of the escalating outbreak were met with fear, hoarding – and complete indifference.
'We don't dare complain': Sexism and harassment plague French restaurant kitchens
If the #MeToo movement has knocked the sexism out of some professional kitchens around the world, the restaurant sector in France has not followed suit. We take a look behind the scenes.
Photo illustration © Jeff Pachoud, AFP
VIDEO REPORTS
Barred by Brexit: France’s British elected officials forced to step down
Hundreds of incumbent town councillors will not be on the ballot in local French elections this weekend since they are no longer European Union citizens following Brexit. Newly ineligible to hold office, British elected officials across the country are being forced to step down.
Barred by Brexit © screen grab
THE OBSERVERS
Video: The daily life of migrants trapped at the Turkey-Greece border
Thousands of migrants – most of them from Syria, Afghanistan, Pakistan and Iran – have rushed to the border separating Turkey and Greece after the Turkish government announced in late February that it would no longer stop migrants from crossing into Europe. Our team spoke to some of those trapped at the border who describe difficult living conditions and violent Greek border guards.
Mexican women stage nationwide ‘Day Without Us’ strike
Shops were left eerily empty and the labour ministry was particularly hard hit on Monday as Mexico’s female population staged a nationwide “Day Without Us” strike to protest against gender-based violence and the country's high rate of femicide.
Mexico's women staged a 'Day Without Us' strike © Henry Romero / Reuters
TV SHOWS ONLINE
THE INTERVIEW
Life and death decisions under siege: Syrian doctor on ninth anniversary of war
It's now been nine years since the start of the war in Syria – and Syrian civilians are still dying and seeking safety as refugees. Our guest is a doctor who spent five years treating patients under the missiles and bombs of the Syrian regime and its Russian backers in Eastern Ghouta. Dr. Amani Ballour was just 25 years old and fresh out of medical school when the siege began. Her experiences and eventual evacuation were the subject of a documentary, "The Cave", which was nominated at this year's Oscars.
PEOPLE & PROFIT
Coronavirus consequences: What can policymakers do to save the economy?
Global growth could be cut in half if the coronavirus outbreak continues to spread, according to the OECD. What are the options open to policymakers to treat the virus's economic symptoms? We ask veteran market analyst Justin Urquhart Stewart, co-founder of 7 Investment Management, if the stock market volatility is set to last. And we take a look at the auto industry as the virus hits both suppliers and customers.
FRANCE IN FOCUS
Paris City Hall: The race for the top prize in France's municipal elections
In France, the municipal elections are held every six years. But the most closely-watched race is the vote to win the keys to Paris City Hall. There have been some surprises in the race so far, as the president's chosen candidate Benjamin Griveaux was forced to bow out after a sex video scandal. Leading in the polls is the incumbent mayor of Paris, the left-leaning Anne Hidalgo. But not far behind her in another well-known figure in French politics, the right-leaning Rachida Dati.
Paris © screen grab
PERSPECTIVE
EU migrant crisis: Criminalising compassion
Stopping to help women who are injured and look distressed at the side of the road, offering food to a hungry child or tea to a parched man who has been walking for days: These acts of compassion are increasingly being treated as crimes across Europe. Amnesty International has released the results of an investigation into how eight European countries are criminalising compassion, possibly in contravention of international human rights laws.
FOCUS
Anxiety, isolation, boredom: The side effects of coronavirus in China
The coronavirus epidemic may be slowing in China, but another problem is taking hold in the country: anxiety. Fear of being infected by the virus has given way to loneliness and isolation, especially among the residents of Wuhan, where residents remain under quarantine. A recent poll puts the number of people suffering from anxiety in China at 42 percent.
Focus © screen grab
FASHION
Ready-to-wear, winter 2020: Paris celebrates diversity
For its winter 2020 ready-to-wear collections, Chanel sends both slim and voluptuous models down the catwalk, with black and white women dressed as musketeers. Balmain rethinks the very concept of the bourgeoisie, while Nigerian designer Kenneth Ize joins his South African colleague Thebe Magugu in turning to his roots for inspiration. Last but not least, Japanese designers Issey Miyake and Yohji Yamamoto look to the future with a rebellious streak.
The Grand Palais © screen grab
ENCORE
Rosamund Pike and Sam Riley star in Marie Curie biopic 'Radioactive'
A pioneer in the field of science and the first woman to win two Nobel prizes, Marie Curie is one of the most important historical figures of the 20th century. A new biopic starring Rosamund Pike and Sam Riley looks at two defining moments in her life: meeting her husband and lifelong research partner Pierre Curie, and the discovery of the elements polonium and radium.
ENCORE! © France 24
Music show: The Big Moon on touring their second album and Record Store Day 2020
Despite Brexit and coronavirus fears, London's indie rock four-piece The Big Moon have just embarked on the European leg of their tour. The Mercury Prize-nominated band – who recently released their second album "Walking Like We Do" and toured with veterans The Pixies – popped by the FRANCE 24 studios for a chat and talked about being this year's Record Store Day ambassadors. The show also features new releases by French electro duo Telepopmusik, Brighton rockers Porridge Radio and legendary Pulp frontman Jarvis Cocker's new(ish) band Jarv Is.
REPORTERS
Indonesia's tin miners who slave away for the world's computer and phone giants
On the Indonesian island of Bangka, men dig tirelessly at the face of a giant mine. They're searching for tin, a metal worth as much as gold to them. The island supplies a quarter of global production, fulfilling the vast needs of computer and mobile phone giants. Located east of Sumatra, Bangka was once an island paradise but has now become one gigantic surface mine. Official mining companies rub shoulders with thousands of illegal miners, risking their lives in the hope of a lucky break. It's also an environmental catastrophe, with lagoons now devoid of marine life.
Tin Miners © screen grab
YOU ARE HERE
The onset of a snowy winter in the French Alps
High up in the French Alps, just a few kilometres from the Italian border, winter is taking grip. Tourists glide down the slopes, while locals hunker down in their remote hamlets for the long and cold months to come. Those who choose to live here love these mountains despite the icy winters and relative isolation. We get a glimpse of life for them in this snowy landscape.
You Are Here © screen grab
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france24--2020-03-13--Gender and the coronavirus: Why are more men dying than women?

Gender and the coronavirus : Why are more men dying than women ?
In this edition , early data from @ @ @ @ @ than women are dying from coronavirus .
Annette Young talks about why with Professor Sabra @ @ @ @ @ gender differences in infectious diseases at the Johns Hopkins University 's School of Public Health @ @ @ @ @ Africa over revelations that hospitals sterilised a group of pregnant HIV-positive women without their consent @ @ @ @ @ number of French business schools are now offering courses on dealing with sexism in the @ @

Gender and the coronavirus: Why are more men dying than women?
12:15 THE 51 PERCENT © FRANCE 24
In this edition, early data from China shows that more men than women are dying from coronavirus. Annette Young talks about why with Professor Sabra Klein, a specialist on gender differences in infectious diseases at the Johns Hopkins University's School of Public Health. Also anger in South Africa over revelations that hospitals sterilised a group of pregnant HIV-positive women without their consent. Plus how a growing number of French business schools are now offering courses on dealing with sexism in the workplace.


france24--2020-03-13--COVID-19: How technology is helping to mitigate the outbreak

The number of coronavirus cases is slowing in China but growing everywhere else in the world .
From AI to @ @ @ @ @ in this edition we tell you how technology can help manage the epidemic and which @ @ @ @ @ to handle future public health emergencies .
As the number of coronavirus cases increases in @ @ @ @ @ for a potential influx of infected patients in the weeks to come .
Some medical @ @ @ @ @ already equipped themselves with AI-driven solutions to help them plan patient flow .
We speak @ @ @ @ @ company Calyps about how these algorithms could become even more efficient in a near future @ @ @ @ @ with our in-house expert Dhananjay Khadilkar about how mathematical models can help us predict and @ @ @ @ @ And in our Test 24 segment , we try Aria by the French company Fluigent @ @ @ @ @ to make the lives of biologists much easier - we tell you why .

The number of coronavirus cases is slowing in China but growing everywhere else in the world. From AI to robotics and even maths, in this edition we tell you how technology can help manage the epidemic and which innovations are better equipping us to handle future public health emergencies.
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As the number of coronavirus cases increases in France, hospitals are bracing for a potential influx of infected patients in the weeks to come. Some medical facilities, however, have already equipped themselves with AI-driven solutions to help them plan patient flow. We speak to the CEO of the company Calyps about how these algorithms could become even more efficient in a near future.
Plus, we talk with our in-house expert Dhananjay Khadilkar about how mathematical models can help us predict and plan for future pandemics.
And in our Test 24 segment, we try Aria by the French company Fluigent. The device is set to make the lives of biologists much easier - we tell you why.
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france24--2020-03-12--As it happened: US declares state of emergency, WHO warns Europe now  'epicentre' of coronavirus

As it happened : US declares state of emergency , WHO warns Europe now 'epicentre ' of coronavirus US President @ @ @ @ @ a national emergency in response to the coronavirus pandemic , aiming to make up to @ @ @ @ @ US states and territories to fight its spread .
Earlier in the day , the @ @ @ @ @ Europe was now the `` epicentre '' of the pandemic , reporting more daily cases @ @ @ @ @ height of its outbreak .
Review our FRANCE 24 live blog for the news as @ @ @

Live blog
As it happened: US declares state of emergency, WHO warns Europe now 'epicentre' of coronavirus
US President Donald Trump on Friday declared a national emergency in response to the coronavirus pandemic, aiming to make up to $50 billion available for US states and territories to fight its spread. Earlier in the day, the World Health Organization warned that Europe was now the "epicentre" of the pandemic, reporting more daily cases than China did at the height of its outbreak. Review our FRANCE 24 live blog for the news as it happened.
Police check cars at the exit of the Paznaun Valley on March 13, 2020 in Tyrol, Austria. © Jakob Gruber, AFP
Advertising Read more US President Donald Trump declared a national emergency that he said makes up to $50 billion in aid available for US states and territories.
Thousands of Algerians marched against the country’s ruling elite despite the coronavirus pandemic. In downtown Algiers, police wore face masks and a group of youngsters sold protective gear and liquid soap.
In the US Democratic presidential race, former Vice President Joe Biden is holding a town hall for Illinois voters from 800 miles away in Delaware, while Senator Bernie Sanders has ceased holding rallies around the country and is staging daily news conferences in his home state of Vermont.
Egypt reported 13 new cases of coronavirus, bringing the country’s total to 93.
"Europe has now become the epicentre of the pandemic," WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said in a virtual press conference, describing the more than 5,000 deaths worldwide as "a tragic milestone".
In France, 79 people have died of the coronavirus (up from 61 on Thursday), while the number of cases has climbed to 3,661. All schools, crèches and universities across France will be closed from Monday.
Stock markets rebounded after Thursday’s plunge with European stocks staging a comeback, rising 8 percent by Friday afternoon after recording early losses. The Dow rose 773.20 points, or 3.6 percent, at opening to 21,973.82.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has announced a two-week state of emergency beginning Saturday.
Italy remains on a nationwide lockdown as its coronavirus death toll jumped by 250 in one day to 1,266, an increase of 25 percent. The country's total number of cases rose to 17,660 from 15,113, an increase of 17 percent.
China reported its lowest-ever number of new coronavirus cases: just eight on Friday, with no new domestic infections outside Hubei province.
Major sports events have been cancelled, including Champions League and Premier League matches. Daily newsletterReceive essential international news every morning Subscribe Take international news everywhere with you! Download the France 24 app


france24--2020-03-14--Coronavirus in France: Prime Minister announces closure of cafes, shops, restaurants and cinemas

French Prime Minister Edouard Philippe announces new measures to limit the spread of COVID-19 , on March 14 , 2020 , in Paris .
France will shut most shops , restaurants and entertainment facilities from midnight on Saturday and people should stay home as much as possible as the spread of coronavirus is accelerating , Prime Minister Edouard Philippe announced .
He was speaking at a news conference after the public health authority said 91 people had died in France and almost 4,500 were now infected .
“ I have decided to close all non-indispensable locations , notably cafes , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , ” he said .
“ We must absolutely limit our movements.
” Exceptions to the shop ban will include food stores , pharmacies and petrol stations .
Philippe said the government had been left with no choice because too many people were still out in the streets and not sufficiently applying recently announced measures , including keeping a safe distance from each other .
That , he said , was helping accelerate the spread of the virus .
France has already ordered the closure of schools from Monday and had advised people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ home .
Philippe said public transport would remain open , but that the government expected companies to put into place systems for people to work from home beginning on Monday .
However , he said local elections on Sunday would go ahead under strict sanitary conditions .
President Emmanuel Macron decided last week to go ahead with the elections , saying it was vital the democratic system continue to function , despite some criticism and concern over the possibility of people being infected at polling stations .
Jerome Salomon , the head of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there had been a rapid increase in serious cases , including 300 people in intensive care , half of whom were below 60 years of age .
“ To date , there has not been enough awareness by French women and men of the importance of their role in the face of the virus .
It is urgent .
Now is the time to change our behavior , ” he said .
“ We must now do everything to delay , to slow down , to clip the curve of this epidemic.
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ where hospitals are overwhelmed by the number of serious cases .
Neighbouring Italy ’ s health system has been severely strained by the coronavirus outbreak there .
“ I am conscious of the efforts and sacrifices that we are asking , but I have faith that the French people will have the capacity to understand the seriousness of this moment , ” Philippe said .

France has gone on lockdown after French Prime Minister Edouard Philippe ordered the closure of restaurants, cafés and all other "non-essential" commerce beginning at midnight on Saturday. Groceries, pharmacies, tobacconists and petrol stations will remain open.
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Prime Minister Edouard Philippe ordered most shops, restaurants and entertainment facilities to close starting at midnight on Saturday and told people to stay home as much as possible to slow the spread of the coronavirus.
Philippe was speaking at a news conference after the public health authority said 91 people had died in France and almost 4,500 were now infected.
“I have decided to close all non-essential locations, notably cafés, restaurants, cinemas, nightclubs and shops,” he said. “We must absolutely limit our movements.”
Exceptions to the ban will include grocery stores, pharmacies and petrol stations.
Philippe said the government had been left with no choice but to implement stricter measures after too many people were still out in the streets, enjoying cafés and restaurants and not sufficiently self-isolating as the government had earlier suggested.
That, he said, was helping accelerate the spread of the virus. France has already ordered the closure of all schools starting Monday and has advised people over the age of 70 to stay home.
“I am conscious of the efforts and sacrifices that we are asking, but I have faith that the French people will have the capacity to understand the seriousness of this moment,” Philippe said.
>> In pictures: France on lockdown as all 'non-essential' businesses close
The announcement came hours after France's health minister warned that people should not use anti-inflammatory painkillers – like aspirin, naproxen and ibuprofen – if they have coronavirus-like symptoms because they could worsen the condition.
"Taking anti-inflammatory drugs (ibuprofen, cortisone ...) could be an aggravating factor for the infection. If you have a fever, take paracetamol," Health Minister Oliver Véran said on Twitter.
01:29
President Emmanuel Macron decided last week to go ahead with nationwide municipal elections on Sunday, saying it was vital for the democratic system to continue to function despite some criticism and concerns over the possibility of people being infected as they gather at polling stations.
Jérôme Salomon, the head of the French public health authority, said there had been a rapid increase in serious cases, including 300 people in intensive care, half of whom were below 60 years of age.
“To date, there has not been enough awareness by French women and men of the importance of their role in the face of the virus. It is urgent. Now is the time to change our behaviour,” he said.
00:22
“We must now do everything to delay, to slow down, to flatten the curve of this epidemic,” Salomon said.
The government wants to avoid a situation where hospitals are overwhelmed by the number of serious cases after neighbouring Italy’s health system was severely strained by the coronavirus outbreak there.
France's interior ministry said on Sunday it would begin implementing tougher checks of both people and goods at the border with Germany in a bid to limit the spread of coronavirus although it will not close the border completely, contradicting some earlier media reports.
"We are going to limit border crossings to the strict minimum while allowing people and merchandise to go through. It's not a closure," an interior ministry source told AFP.
(FRANCE 24 with REUTERS and AFP)
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