French transport minister promises concrete action after meeting cycling associations

The French transport minister François Durovray vouched to take concrete action against motorized violence after meeting with cycling associations on Monday.

It follows the death of 27-year-old Paul Varry, who was allegedly deliberately run over in Paris last Tuesday by an SUV driver, who now faces preliminary charges of murder. Varry’s death sparked protests calling for safer roads for cyclists, and an end to motorized violence.

Durovray, who is an avid cyclist himself, said on X that he will launch the new mission “against violence, protect all road users,” he adds that he will continue to work closely with cycling associations in an attempt to make roads safer for everyone, whether they are in a car, on a bike, or by foot.

Varry was known as a dedicated advocate for urban cycling, particularly in the northern Parisian suburb of Saint-Ouen. His death stirred up emotions in many and tributes were paid in several cities.

The co-president of the cycling association FUB Alexis Frémeaux said that motorized violence is a common issue in the city center of the French capital.

“Every cyclist has already experienced violence on the roads. It could either be threats, pressure, endangerment, deliberate collisions… Every cyclist has a story to tell on the subject.”

The tragedy has reignited national debates on road safety and cyclist protection as France sees an increasing number of cyclists in its urban centers.