European powers implement police state measures in wake of Charlie Hebdo attack - World Socialist Web Site
Governments throughout Europe have responded to the attacks on Charlie Hebdo
in France by moving quickly to push through a raft of anti-democratic
measures. They are exploiting the shock and confusion generated by the
event in Paris to take actions that have long been prepared, but that
have so far encountered resistance.
Immediately after the attacks,
the police presence at airports, in front of embassies, government
buildings, newspaper offices and public places was reinforced by
thousands of security forces in European capitals and major cities.
Heavily
armed and camouflaged military troops have been deployed throughout
Paris and elsewhere in France, including at the Eiffel Tower and in all
public places. Parts of the city resemble a war zone.
On Monday,
the Ministry of Defence in Paris announced the deployment of 10,000
troops to maintain peace and order and protect public buildings. In
addition, the government has provided 4,700 police officers and
gendarmes to guard Jewish schools and synagogues that are considered
particularly vulnerable.
