In Paris and Bordeaux, thousands protest to defend free parties

Thousands gathered in Paris and Bordeaux to protest a proposed law they believe threatens the existence of free parties. Demonstrators argue that the 'Ripost' bill, which aims to toughen legislation around these events, is an infringement on personal liberty.

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Jail the rapists, not the partygoers

In Paris, participants marched behind trucks playing techno and electronic music, carrying signs that read "Jail the rapists, not the partygoers" and "Our raves are reality." Many attendees, predominantly young, described free parties as essential "spaces of freedom" and "refuges" from societal pressures. Sebastian, 23, told AFP that the government's issue with these events is their self-managed nature, free from state control.

Caroline, 29, who recently discovered free parties after years of attending techno clubs, finds them more authentic. "It's really a space of freedom like we don't find much anymore in society," she said. "Finding a place where you don't have to pay, don't have to consume, I recognized myself much more in that than in techno clubs."

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Our raves are reality

In Bordeaux, approximately 2,500 people participated in a similar "manifestive." An organizer of unauthorized sound systems, speaking anonymously, defended the "culture" of rave parties, asserting that organizers are constantly mindful of safety and waste management. "I've never organized a party that went wrong," she assured AFP, emphasizing that the fight is for freedom, especially in the current climate.

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What really bothers them (about free parties) is the fact that the state and the government do not have control over these places that are self-managed.

The 'Ripost' bill, already passed by the Senate, awaits debate in the National Assembly. If enacted, it could impose penalties of up to two years in prison and a 30,000 euro fine for organizing unauthorized parties.

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It's really a space of freedom like we don't find much anymore in society. Finding a place where you don't have to pay, don't have to consume, I recognized myself much more in that than in techno clubs.