In these troubled and unprecedented times, we are transitioning from a health crisis to an economic and social crisis. INSEE estimates a 20% drop in GDP in the second quarter.
While the virus is still “watchful” but satisfied with the “good news” on the health front, while warning against “a form of casualness,” Prime Minister Edouard Philippe announced on Thursday the easing of lockdown rules starting from Tuesday, June 2.
Three weeks after the lifting of the unprecedented population lockdown and before the penultimate step scheduled for June 22, here are the measures decided for phase 2:
● End of the 100 km rule
Between mainland France and the overseas territories, checks and quarantines are maintained.
● What reopens from June 2
– parks and gardens
– all schools and middle schools
– museums and monuments, with mandatory mask-wearing
– bars, cafes, and restaurants; only their terraces in orange zones
– performance halls and theaters in green zones
– campgrounds in green zones
– swimming pools, gymnasiums, and sports halls in green zones
● What will wait until June 22
– cinemas
– summer camps
– performance halls and theaters in orange zones
– campgrounds in orange zones
– swimming pools, gymnasiums, and sports halls in orange zones
● What doesn’t change
Public gatherings remain limited to 10 people “until at least June 21.” Nightclubs, gaming halls, and racetracks remain closed. Contact sports are still prohibited, teleworking is encouraged, and mask-wearing is “strongly recommended.”
● All schools, middle schools, and high schools reopen in green zones, French oral exam canceled
In green zones, they will host students of at least one level starting June 2; in orange zones, a distinction is made. In vocational high schools, which experience “more dropouts” according to the Education Minister, final year and CAP students will be welcomed. As for general and technological high schools, they will only open their doors to students invited for individual educational consultations.
● The EU’s external borders closed at least until June 15
European citizens should then be able to access French territory “without quarantine.” Regarding the opening to countries outside the European Union (EU), the Prime Minister indicated that “decisions still need to be made” after consultations with other member countries.
● StopCovid: Philippe “invites” the French to “use it” from June 2
The StopCovid tracing app will indeed be available for download from June 2, following the green light given by Parliament on Wednesday.
