Paris

March 22, 2023

ISA has been closely following developments related to demonstrations and multi-sector service strikes across France in response to the government's pension reform. In Paris, intermittent strikes and demonstrations have resulted in disruption to transportation and sanitation services, among others, as well as street closures. Air traffic controllers and railway workers announced plans to strike on March 23, 2023, when demonstrations are also scheduled to take place.

The ISA Paris resident staff have been regularly communicating with students on areas to avoid during planned demonstrations, as students are not permitted to participate in or observe demonstrations. The ISA Paris staff continue to advise students on best practices to get around the city during transportation strikes and where to find the most up to date information from ISA, local authorities, as well as their host institutions. Classes for students attending The American Business School Paris have exceptionally been moved online for March 23rd, while classes at the Institut Catholique de Paris are continuing as normal. 

Further strikes and demonstrations can be expected. The ISA Paris staff will continue to advise students, and we will monitor all developments and update this alert accordingly. 

Paris

June 21, 2023

On Wednesday afternoon, June 21st (local time), an explosion occurred in a building in Paris's 5th arrondissement. The blast caused significant damage to surrounding buildings and injuries to those in the area. Several buildings near the blast have been evacuated, and authorities are advising the public to avoid the area while emergency response teams secure the scene. The cause of the explosion has not been confirmed, but initial reports indicate it may have been caused by a gas leak.

The ISA Paris resident staff has confirmed that all students currently participating on ISA summer programs in the city are safe and accounted for. Students have been advised to avoid the area and encouraged to be in touch with their families at home. ISA does not have student accommodations in the impacted area. The ISA Paris resident staff, along with ISA's U.S.-based Health & Safety team will continue to monitor the situation and advise students accordingly.