This archive report was first published on 15 June 2020.
On June 15, 2020, French President Emmanuel Macron announced a significant easing of COVID-19 restrictions in France.
As of Monday, cafes and restaurants across the country will be allowed to reopen, and travel to other European countries will be permitted without quarantine or restrictions upon arrival.
Germany, Belgium, Croatia, and Switzerland have also fully reopened their borders with EU countries, allowing travelers from the UK to visit without restrictions.
However, those traveling to France from the UK or Spain will still face a two-week isolation period upon arrival.
Macron emphasized that while France has won its 'first victory' against the virus, it is crucial to remain vigilant and prepared for a potential resurgence.
He also confirmed that schools will reopen on June 22, except for high schools, and that the second round of municipal elections, originally scheduled for March, will proceed on June 28.
Macron stressed the importance of maintaining 'tightly controlled' mass gatherings to prevent the spread of the virus.
With over 29,400 deaths and almost 194,000 confirmed cases, France has been severely impacted by the pandemic.
President Macron first imposed a strict lockdown on March 17, which remained in place until May 11.
