As part of the post-modern celebrations, nu-“French” are “building bridges”

Despite fears of the riots that have gripped France in recent weeks, the festivities in the southwest Paris suburb of Malakoff went off without a hitch on Thursday. While a large police force was present, filtering access to the square where the festivities were taking place, five social workers kept a watchful eye on the crowd throughout the evening.

The mission of the five men wearing purple T-shirts emblazoned with the word “Médiation” is two-fold. Their main objective is to try to prevent conflicts and defuse public disturbances through dialogue. They also work to create links with local residents. “It’s a job that really makes you feel useful,” said a smiling Samba Baye. “We can help homeless people improve their lot, raise young people’s awareness of certain issues or try to calm things down when a situation gets out of hand. And sometimes, like tonight, we’re there just in case we’re needed.”

Charming. Now, try building some guillotine scaffolds.