Techno Parade in Paris turns into protest against new public order law
Thousands gathered at the Bastille in Paris for the revived Techno Parade, using music to denounce the recently adopted law Ripost on public order.
The Techno Parade made its comeback in Paris, filling the Bastille square with thousands of revelers who followed the beat of ultrabass under clear skies. The hiatus was caused first by the 2024 Paralympic Games and then by a lack of sponsors in 2025, according to the organisers. This edition is marked by a political edge, as protesters target the law Ripost, recently approved by Parliament to address public order, security and tranquility.
Demonstrators warned that the law could turn ordinary music events into criminal offences, referencing a recent police dispersal of a rave in Normandy where participants were shot at. A veteran free-party organizer, who has been active since age sixteen, voiced anger at the idea of receiving a criminal record for simply enjoying music. The parade also featured artisans selling goods, highlighting its role as a social-cohesion platform across age groups.
Why it matters
It shows how cultural events are being politicised in response to new restrictions on public gatherings.
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