Test Traveller
The FCDO does not advise against travel to Paris, France. The current advisory states: 'Around 17 million British nationals visit France every year. Most visits are trouble-free. There is a high threat of terrorism. Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in France. Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreigners, such as shopping centres, entertainment venues, cultural sites, public transport and places of worship. You should be vigilant in public places and follow the advice of local authorities.' The FCDO also notes: 'Demonstrations happen frequently in France. Most are peaceful, but some may become violent. If you are near a demonstration, you should move away to a safe place and follow the advice of local authorities. Strikes can cause disruption to transport and other services.' Specific guidance includes carrying a form of ID at all times and being aware of 'slash and grab' thefts in the Paris RER/metro system and at major tourist sites.
France is a stable democracy with a high level of development and a strong rule of law. However, it faces persistent challenges from international and domestic terrorism, frequent civil unrest, and high rates of petty crime in major urban centers like Paris. Political stability is high, though social tensions often manifest in large-scale strikes and demonstrations that can disrupt transport and services.
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Significant increase in crowds in major shopping districts such as Boulevard Haussmann, Rue de Rivoli, and Les Halles. Increased pressure on public transport.
Risk implication: Elevated risk of petty crime, specifically pickpocketing and bag-snatching, due to high density of distracted tourists and shoppers.
Increased security presence around the US Embassy (Place de la Concorde) and American-affiliated institutions or venues in Paris.
Risk implication: Potential for localized traffic disruption or spontaneous small-scale protests/gatherings. Heightened vigilance required near US-linked sites due to symbolic targeting risks.
Potential for sudden disruptions to the RATP (Paris Metro/Bus) or SNCF (Rail) services, as well as airport ground handling.
Risk implication: Travellers may face logistical delays or be forced to use alternative, more expensive transport options. Strikes in France are often accompanied by localized demonstrations.
The traveller has not provided specific demographic details. Generally, for any traveller in Paris: Solo travellers face a higher risk of being targeted for petty crime and may experience more difficulty navigating transport disruptions. Female travellers (or those perceived as female) may experience 'le harcèlement de rue' (street harassment), particularly in crowded areas or late at night; while France has laws against this, vigilance is required. British nationals are not specifically targeted for political reasons, but should remain aware that UK-linked sites could be symbolic targets for generic anti-Western sentiment or terrorism. Without specific age or medical data, it is assumed the traveller has standard mobility; those with reduced mobility may find the Paris Metro system (which lacks widespread lift access) challenging.
Terrorism
A 'High' threat level exists. The risk is primarily from 'lone actor' attacks using low-sophistication methods (knives, vehicles) targeting crowded public spaces.
Petty Crime
High incidence of pickpocketing, phone snatching, and 'distraction' scams in tourist hotspots (Eiffel Tower, Louvre, Sacré-Cœur) and on the RER B line from CDG Airport.
Civil Unrest
Frequent protests can lead to localized violence (clashes with police, vandalism). While usually predictable, spontaneous 'sauvage' (wildcat) protests can occur.
- 1.Register with the AIG MyLifeline app prior to departure to receive real-time security alerts for Paris.
- 2.Maintain high situational awareness in crowded areas, especially on public transport and near major landmarks.
- 3.Do not keep all valuables (passport, credit cards, cash) in one place; use a hotel safe for items not needed for daily activity.
- 4.Avoid all demonstrations and large political gatherings; if you encounter one, move in the opposite direction immediately.
- 5.Use reputable taxi apps (e.g., G7, Uber) rather than hailing vehicles on the street, especially at night.
- 6.In the event of a security incident, follow the 'Run, Hide, Tell' protocol or local authority instructions.
- 7.Ensure your mobile phone is fully charged and carries the AIG Emergency Assistance number: +44 1273 065 120.
Travellers should monitor for standard respiratory symptoms and follow general UKHSA guidance upon return.
Travel is for business meetings in a low-profile capacity. The traveller should stay in a reputable, multi-story hotel with 24-hour reception and electronic key card access. Avoid staying in lower-tier districts (e.g., certain parts of the 18th, 19th, and 20th arrondissements) if unfamiliar with the city. Meetings should ideally be held in established offices or hotel business centres.
Evacuation is unlikely but would be triggered by a major terrorist attack, sustained widespread civil breakdown, or a natural disaster. Decisions will be made by Chatham House ELT in consultation with AIG Crisis Centres and the British Embassy in Paris. AIG MyLifeline will be the primary source for coordinated evacuation instructions.
If Eurostar services (Gare du Nord) and airports (CDG/Orly) are suspended, relocation to a safer district or an alternative city (e.g., Lyon or Lille) via road/bus may be considered. Overland travel to the UK via ferry ports (Calais/Dieppe) is a secondary option.
In the event of a 'shelter-in-place' order (e.g., during an active shooter incident or localized riot), the traveller should hibernate in their hotel room. Ensure a 48-hour supply of water and non-perishable snacks is kept in the room. Keep the door locked and stay away from windows.
Daily check-in via WhatsApp at 09:00 UK time and 18:00 UK time to a designated Chatham House point of contact. Additional check-ins required: 1. Upon arrival at CDG/Orly airport; 2. Upon arrival at Paris accommodation; 3. Upon departure for the return journey.
If a check-in is missed by 30 minutes, the contact will attempt to call the traveller. If no contact is made after 1 hour, the contact will notify the Chatham House Line Manager. If no contact after 2 hours, AIG MyLifeline and the British Embassy will be alerted. For medical emergencies, the traveller must contact AIG Assistance (+44 1273 065 120) immediately.
AIG MyLifeline Assistance: +44 1273 065 120; FCDO Consular Emergency: +44 20 7008 5000; French Emergency Services: 112; Chatham House Base Contact: [Insert Department Contact Number]; Traveller Mobile: [Insert Number].
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