Originated as an online protest that quickly evolved into actual demonstrations throughout France, Belgium, Germany and the Netherlands. The yellow jacket movement is not associated with a specific political party or trade union and has spread largely by social media.
People are just fed up with being exploited.
The yellow vest was chosen as a symbol, because all motorists had been required by law (since 2008) to have high-visibility vests in their vehicles when driving. As a result, reflective vests have become widely available, inexpensive and symbolic.
The protests began on 17 November 2018, and attracted over 300,000 people across France, with protesters constructing barricades and blocking roads. Since than at least 585 civilians and 115 police officers are injured.
