couvrefeu

A couvre-feu, usually translated as curfew, is a legal order that requires people to remain indoors during specified hours, typically at night, and to refrain from street movement. It may also limit activities or close certain establishments and apply to particular groups or the whole population.

Etymology: The term derives from French couvre-feu, literally “to cover the fire,” reflecting a historical duty to extinguish or cover open flames and to maintain security by ensuring residents were indoors after a set hour.

History: Curfews have a long history in Europe and beyond. In medieval and early modern towns they served to reduce the risk of fires at night and to maintain order. They were widely used during periods of warfare, plagues, and civil unrest. In France, curfews appeared in various forms across eras, including the revolutionary and Napoleonic periods, and during the Second World War when authorities imposed nighttime restrictions. In the 20th and 21st centuries, curfews have reappeared in many countries during emergencies.

Enforcement and scope: Curfews are typically enforced by police powers, with penalties for violations and exceptions for essential workers and activities. They can be nationwide, regional, or localized to cities or districts, and may have different start times on weekends or holidays.

Contemporary use: In peacetime, curfews are less common but can be used to address security concerns or public health crises. The COVID-19 pandemic saw widespread temporary curfews in several countries, including France, where nationwide time restrictions were enacted during 2020–2021.