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Chris Bockman

Toulouse, France
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About Chris
Chris Bockman is a freelance journalist based in Toulouse, France.
Moderator/journalist
Provide audio and tv coverage for BBC News and France 24 
Newsgathering and live standups 
Host many events as moderator mainly in aerospace and innovation sector
Languages
English
Services
Research Fact Checking
Skills
Fact Checking
Portfolio

Suspect was previously imprisoned for 17 years for a series of 'audacious robberies across the UK', such as ATM explosions and theft of R$ 2.5 million in tractors

10 Jun 2024  |  O Globo
A suspect, previously imprisoned for 17 years for a series of audacious robberies across the UK, including ATM explosions and the theft of R$ 2.5 million in tractors, is under scrutiny again. The article details the suspect's criminal history and the nature of his past crimes.

French farmer and daughter killed as car hits protest

23 Jan 2024  |  pressnewsagency.org
A French farmer, Alexandra Sonac, and her 12-year-old daughter were killed when a car crashed into a roadblock during a national protest by French farmers south of Toulouse. The farmer's husband was severely injured. The protests, which have spread across France, are in response to new environmental regulations and rising energy costs. The farmers have been nicknamed 'gilets verts', echoing the 'gilets jaunes' protests. The French government has been cautious in its response, with Prime Minister Gabriel Attal expressing condolences and solidarity with the farmers.

Rock in a hard place: France-Spain border residents angry over road blocks

05 Nov 2023  |  BBC News فارسی
Residents along the France-Spain border are frustrated by the French government's decision to close four small roads to prevent illegal immigration, citing anti-terrorism controls. Local communities, deeply interconnected economically and culturally, are campaigning for the roads to be reopened. The closures have disrupted daily life, including the local wine industry, and have sparked protests and legal actions. Despite the government's stance, locals argue that the closures are ineffective and unnecessary, especially given the historical significance and practical use of these routes.

Rock in a hard place: France-Spain border residents angry over road blocks

26 Oct 2023  |  BBC
Residents along the France-Spain border are frustrated by the French government's decision to close four small roads to curb illegal immigration and enhance anti-terrorism controls. The closures have disrupted long-standing economic, cultural, and personal ties between the communities. Local groups, including 'Alberes without borders,' are actively campaigning for the roads to be re-opened, arguing that the closures are ineffective and unnecessary. The French government maintains that the closures are essential for focusing police efforts on main routes, citing a significant increase in illegal migration. However, local leaders and residents believe the measures are disproportionate and ineffective.

France anti-vax protests take aim at Macron

01 Oct 2023  |  The Independent
160,000 people protested across France against the Covid vaccination programme and upcoming restrictions for the unvaccinated. President Macron, while in French Polynesia, highlighted the milestone of 40 million French citizens having received at least one vaccine dose, with a new target of 50 million by the end of August. Despite bad weather, over 200,000 people participated in 184 rallies, indicating the rapid growth of the anti-vax movement in France.

Aurélien Pradié: The rising star shaking up French politics

06 Apr 2023  |  BBC
Aurélien Pradié, a 37-year-old MP from the Lot region, has rapidly ascended in French politics by opposing President Emmanuel Macron's pension reform. His defiance against his own Les Républicains party and the government's controversial use of constitutional powers has garnered him significant attention. Pradié's grassroots approach and strong local connections have bolstered his popularity, though he faces criticism from opponents who view him as opportunistic. His future ambitions include potentially running for the presidency, aiming to reconnect the right with the working and middle classes.

The boxer who fled Iran seeking the freedom to fight

12 Feb 2023  |  bbc.co.uk
Sadaf Khadem, an Iranian female boxer, fled to France seeking the freedom to pursue her sport after facing potential arrest in Iran for boxing without a hijab. In France, she was supported by local boxing club president Franck Weus and received a warm reception from the community, including assistance from local MP Christophe Plassard and business coach Corrine Huet. The article highlights the broader context of human rights issues in Iran, particularly following the death of Mahsa Amini in custody, which sparked mass protests. Sadaf's story has become a source of inspiration for many, as she represents the struggle for freedom and human rights.

The boxer who fled Iran seeking the freedom to fight

12 Feb 2023  |  Kmaupdates
Sadaf Khadem, the first Iranian female boxer, fled Iran to pursue her passion for boxing, which is prohibited for women in her home country. After winning a bout in France, she faced arrest upon her return to Iran for boxing without a hijab. She has since remained in France, where she has found support from local figures and the Iranian diaspora. Her story resonates with many, highlighting the struggles of Iranian women and the broader human rights issues in Iran. Despite her exile, she continues to inspire others through her social media presence and personal courage.

French election: Why the small town of Moissac is on edge

04 Mar 2022  |  BBC News فارسی
The small town of Moissac in southern France, known for its medieval charm and Unesco World Heritage sites, is experiencing tension ahead of the presidential election due to a significant influx of Bulgarian Rom immigrants. The local population's backlash led to the election of far-right mayor Romain Lopez, who has implemented strict policies to address perceived issues with the newcomers. While some residents support these measures, others, including the association O'Amala, argue that the Bulgarians are being unfairly targeted and advocate for their rights and integration. The situation highlights the broader national debate on immigration and cultural assimilation.

Move over Monaco: How one self-declared principality is fighting for rural France

10 Dec 2021  |  The Independent
The French village of Laas, located in the Pyrenees and home to fewer than 200 people, has declared itself the 'Principality of Laas'. This move has garnered significant attention, marked by official signage and customs, positioning it as one of Europe's newest and smallest principalities.

French school bus experiment brings hope to Toulouse estates

16 Nov 2021  |  BBC
A social experiment in Toulouse, France, involves bussing students from impoverished housing estates to schools in the city center to improve educational outcomes and social integration. Initiated by Georges Méric, the left-leaning president of the Haute Garonne council, the project has significantly reduced dropout rates and improved grades. The initiative includes 17 buses transporting 1,140 pupils, with social workers on board to manage issues. The success of the program has led to its adoption in other French cities, aiming for permanent social mixing in classrooms.

French court dog helps soothe anxious victims of crime

20 Jun 2021  |  BBC News فارسی
In south-west France, a black Labrador named Lol provides judicial support to crime victims, especially those affected by violence or sexual abuse. Introduced by prosecutor Frédéric Almendros, Lol has assisted in 80 criminal investigations, helping victims manage the stress of trials. The program, inspired by a similar initiative in Seattle, has gained traction across France, with other courts adopting their own support dogs. French MP Huguette Tiegna is advocating for a bill to grant these dogs official legal status and state funding. The initiative aims to bring humanity to the legal system and has received positive feedback from legal professionals and victims alike.

Marine Le Pen sets sights on French Riviera breakthrough as far-right hopes rise for regional elections

18 Jun 2021  |  The Independent
The upcoming French regional elections are seen as a precursor to the presidential election next year, with crime and illegal immigration dominating the campaign. Marine Le Pen's far-right Rassemblement National (RN) party is focusing on the Provence-Alpes-Cote d’Azur region, fielding Thierry Mariani, a former minister with controversial ties, as their candidate. The RN also aims to make gains in Occitanie, leveraging dissatisfaction in peri-urban communities. The elections are expected to test the far-right's strategy and influence, with mainstream parties reconsidering traditional tactical voting alliances.

French court dog helps soothe anxious victims of crime

15 Jun 2021  |  BBC
In south-west France, a black Labrador named Lol provides judicial support to crime victims, especially those affected by violence or sexual abuse. Trained to remain calm and offer comfort, Lol has assisted in 80 criminal investigations, helping victims from ages three to ninety. The initiative, inspired by a similar program in Seattle, has gained support from local lawyers and has been recognized at the European Parliament. Chief prosecutor Frédéric Almendros plans to expand the program to see if Lol can help reform violent criminals.

Lourdes: Pilgrims flock to French sanctuary online in their millions

12 May 2021  |  BBC
Lourdes, a major pilgrimage site, has adapted to the pandemic by offering e-pilgrimages, significantly increasing its online audience. The Sanctuary of Lourdes, in collaboration with Catholic Church TV channel KTO and its own Radio Présence, broadcasts services globally, attracting millions of viewers daily. Despite the success of these virtual events, Church authorities emphasize that these measures are temporary and aim to encourage physical pilgrimages once conditions allow.

Lourdes: Pilgrims flock to French sanctuary online in their millions

12 May 2021  |  BBC News فارسی
Lourdes, a major pilgrimage site, has adapted to the pandemic by offering online services, attracting millions of virtual visitors. The sanctuary, which usually sees 3.5 million visitors annually, now broadcasts services in multiple languages, significantly increasing its online audience. Despite the success of these e-pilgrimages, Church authorities emphasize the temporary nature of this solution and express a strong desire for physical pilgrimages to resume. The local hotel industry, heavily reliant on pilgrimage tourism, faces a slow recovery, with expectations of a return to normalcy in two to three years.

French skiers swerve Covid in cross-country boom

02 Feb 2021  |  BBC
France's ski lifts are shut due to the pandemic, leading to a surge in cross-country skiing at Plateau de Beille in the Pyrenees. Ticket sales have increased significantly, with skiers waiting up to an hour and a half. The popularity is driven by the closure of downhill ski resorts and the desire to escape cities during lockdowns. Nordic skiing activities, including snowshoeing, have also gained new followers. Sales of Nordic skis and snowshoes have tripled or quadrupled, particularly among younger people. The future of this trend remains uncertain, with some predicting a return to alpine skiing post-pandemic.

Coronavirus outbreak: The nudist village that became a hotspot for new covid cases

03 Sep 2020  |  BBC News فارسی
Cap d'Agde, a popular nudist and swinger destination in southern France, has become a hotspot for new covid-19 cases. A mobile testing unit found that 30% of 800 people tested positive. The outbreak began after a rooftop party at a resort where social distancing rules were ignored. Local health authorities have closed many clubs and bars to control the spread. The village, which usually attracts 45,000 visitors daily during summer, has seen a significant drop in tourism, severely impacting local businesses.

Coronavirus: The nudist resort that became a new COVID-19 hotspot in France

02 Sep 2020  |  BBC News فارسی
Cap d'Agde, a popular nudist resort in France, has become a new COVID-19 hotspot, with 30% of 800 tested naturists found positive. Despite France's strict lockdown measures, the relaxation led to a surge in cases, particularly in the Hérault region. The resort, known for its hedonistic lifestyle, saw a significant impact on tourism and local businesses. Health authorities have implemented mobile testing and mandated mask usage, but social distancing remains challenging. Local businesses and residents express mixed feelings about the situation, highlighting the economic and social repercussions.

The nudist resort that became a new focus of COVID-19 in France

01 Sep 2020  |  Terra
Cap d'Agde, a popular nudist resort in France, has become a new hotspot for COVID-19 infections, drawing attention to its alternative lifestyle. Despite France's strict lockdown measures, the country has seen a resurgence in cases, particularly in the Hérault region. Health authorities found that 30% of 800 tested naturists were positive for the virus. The resort, known for its hedonistic lifestyle, has seen a significant drop in visitors, impacting local businesses. Authorities have implemented mask mandates and social distancing measures, but compliance is challenging. Tourists are being urged to stay away, and those leaving are encouraged to get tested to prevent further spread.

The nudists spreading coronavirus in a French resort

01 Sep 2020  |  BBC News فارسی
Cap d'Agde, a popular destination for naturists and swingers in Southern France, has experienced a significant coronavirus outbreak, with 30% of 800 tested individuals found positive. The resort, known for its hedonistic lifestyle, has seen a decline in visitors due to the pandemic, impacting local businesses and leading to temporary closures of clubs and bars. Health authorities have implemented mobile testing and mandatory face coverings, though social distancing remains challenging. The outbreak has highlighted the risks associated with the resort's lifestyle, with local authorities and business owners grappling with the economic fallout.

The nudists spreading coronavirus in a French resort

01 Sep 2020  |  BBC
Cap d'Agde, a popular destination for naturists and swingers in France, has experienced a significant coronavirus outbreak, with 30% of 800 tested individuals found positive. The high population density and close contact among visitors have contributed to the spread. Health authorities have responded by setting up mobile testing and temporarily shutting down clubs and bars. The outbreak has led to economic impacts, including layoffs at the Waiki Beach resort. Authorities are urging holidaymakers to stay away and get tested before returning home.

Why the French are 'European champions' at abandoning pets

07 Aug 2020  |  BBC
France faces a significant issue with pet abandonment, particularly during the summer, with between 100,000 and 200,000 pets abandoned annually. Animal shelters across the country, such as the one run by Betty Loizeau, are overwhelmed with abandoned pets. Despite awareness campaigns, the problem persists, driven by pets being seen as impulse buys or gifts that lose their appeal over time. Comparatively, the UK sees far fewer cases of pet abandonment. Experts like vet Marina Chaillaud attribute the trend to changing social attitudes towards pets.

Coronavirus: France's boom city Toulouse shaken by pandemic

13 May 2020  |  BBC News فارسی
Toulouse, known as the capital of the aerospace industry, is facing significant economic challenges due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The aerospace sector, including major companies like Airbus and Thales Alenia, has been severely impacted as airlines halt operations. The crisis has raised concerns about the city's future, drawing comparisons to Detroit's decline. Local experts, however, believe the situation is temporary and driven by the pandemic rather than economic factors. The city's growth, driven by its quality of life and job opportunities, is now uncertain. The pandemic has also affected local businesses, including the famous Victor Hugo food market. Efforts are underway to diversify the economy, with initiatives like Aerospace Valley focusing on new technologies and energy sources.

Coronavirus: France's boom city Toulouse shaken by pandemic

13 May 2020  |  BBC
Toulouse, known as the capital of the aerospace industry, is facing significant economic challenges due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The city's aerospace sector, including major employer Airbus, is reeling from the uncertainty surrounding the resumption of flights and demand for new planes. Despite relatively few coronavirus cases, the economic fallout is severe, affecting local businesses and residents. Efforts are underway to diversify the economy through initiatives like Aerospace Valley, focusing on autonomous vehicles, AI, and new energy sources. The pandemic's repercussions could have a lasting impact on Toulouse's growth and development.

Prayers at Notre Dame de Rugby for French win over All Blacks

16 Oct 2015  |  The Star
Fans in the rugby-mad southwest of France are praying for their national team, Les Bleus, to defeat the All Blacks in the upcoming Rugby World Cup quarter-final. In the village of Larriviere Saint Savin, located in the Aquitaine region, a chapel is being used as a shrine to rugby, where a Catholic priest is lighting prayer candles for the French team before their match at the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff.

Prayers at Notre Dame de Rugby for French win over All Blacks

15 Oct 2015  |  Mail Online
In the rugby heartlands of Aquitaine, France, fans are praying for divine intervention at the Notre Dame de Rugby chapel to help their national team, Les Bleus, win against the All Blacks in the Rugby World Cup quarter-final. The chapel, curated by Father Gilbert Lavigne, is adorned with rugby memorabilia and stained-glass windows depicting biblical and sporting scenes, symbolizing the fusion of rugby and religion in the region. Despite the odds, there is hope that France may prevail against the defending champions, New Zealand.

I provide radio and tv coverage from south west France - you should get an idea of what I do if you click on my website above

Why the French state has a team of UFO hunters

04 Nov 2014  |  bbc.com
France maintains Europe's only full-time state-run UFO department, an offshoot of its large space agency, CNES. The department, led by Xavier Passot, investigates UFO sightings with transparency, publishing results online. They receive two sightings daily and have a rigorous reporting process to filter out non-credible claims. While most phenomena are explained as mundane objects like Chinese lanterns, there are about 400 unexplained sightings since the 1970s, including a well-documented event near Aix-en-Provence in 1981.
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