Thousands marched across France on Saturday 17 July, to protest against President Emmanuel Macron's plans to make a Covid 'health pass' mandatory.

Video shows one such march, in Paris.

The pass will be required from 21 July to enter leisure and cultural venues like restaurants or theatres.

The president also wants mandatory vaccination of all health workers.

The sweeping measures were announced this week to fight a rapid surge in coronavirus infections. But protesters say the plans are a breach of their civil liberties.

Some people at rallies against the measures also hold 'anti-vax' views -- more common in France than many other nations.

The measures also prompted demonstrations earlier this week, forcing police to use tear gas to disperse protesters.

This footage was filmed and produced 17 July 2021.

Thousands marched across France on Saturday to protest against President Emmanuel Macron's plans to force vaccination of health workers and require a COVID-19 free certificate to enter places such as bars, restaurants and cinemas.

Macron this week announced sweeping measures to fight a rapid surge in coronavirus infections, which protesters say infringe the freedom of choice of those who do not want the vaccination.

The measures had already prompted demonstrations earlier this week, forcing police to use tear gas to disperse protesters.