Since this statement was released the situation has calmed considerably. We do not expect any significant disruptions to IAMCR 2023.
Lyon, 3 July 2023 - The Local Organising Committee fully understands that recent events may have raised concerns about your travel to France to attend IAMCR 2023. Many of you are worried about the violence that has been experienced in several cities in France over the last few days, including in Lyon. Indeed, the images broadcast by the media have shown scenes of confrontation in the streets, destruction of shop windows, sometimes looting. Unfortunately, the situation is tense and unpredictable. We have not seen such violence in the recent past in France, not even during the “gilets jaunes” movement or the urban riots of 2005. We are truly sorry this is happening just few days before the IAMCR conference.
However, in these challenging times, we can also give you some reassuring information:
1. During the day activities have been operating normally;
2. The pre-conferences and the conference will take place on campuses, which have not experienced any disturbances;
3. The situation has become progressively calmer. Saturday night was considerably less violent than previous nights and Sunday was practically without major incidents.
On Friday, the French government decided not to declare a state of emergency, considering that the situation can be handled without it.
French authorities are committed to maintaining safety and security for everyone, including foreign visitors. They are taking measures to ensure public safety and working diligently to resolve any issues that may arise.
The vast majority of French citizens condemn the violence and strive for peace, equality and understanding.
We will do our best to inform you about the situation and the official decisions of the authorities at national and local level in Lyon and we truly hope and believe that the situation will considerably improve in the next few days.
We look forward to seeing you in Lyon, in a peaceful environment with suitable conditions for intellectual work and cultural exchange!
Françoise Paquienséguy and Adrian Staii
on behalf of the Local Organising Committee, IAMCR 2023
