France is preparing to impose curfews on neighborhoods hit by repeated unrest. The measure would target specific districts rather than the entire country, keeping the streets empty after dark where trouble keeps flaring. Government officials frame the curfew as protection for residents worn down by night-time violence and burned-out cars. If the situation deteriorates beyond what a curfew can control, a state of emergency could be declared. That step would give security forces wider powers, including warrantless house searches and limits on public movement. Paris has used both instruments before during past waves of riots, so the legal groundwork is well worn. No list of affected districts or start dates has been published, and decisions are expected to be taken area by area depending on conditions on the ground.