France experienced a turbulent year in 2020, marked by the global pandemic, ongoing protests, and a series of tragic events. In March, the French government imposed a nationwide lockdown to slow the spread of COVID-19, which had a significant impact on the country's economy and daily life. The lockdown was lifted in May, but restrictions remained in place throughout the year, and a second wave of infections hit in the fall.

In addition to the pandemic, France was rocked by protests and demonstrations throughout the year. The largest and most significant of these was the ongoing Yellow Vest protests, which began in late 2018 and continued into 2020. The protests were sparked by rising fuel taxes and income inequality, but evolved into a broader movement calling for social and economic justice.

The year was also marked by a series of tragic events, including the beheading of schoolteacher Samuel Paty in October, which was condemned by French President Emmanuel Macron as an attack on the country's values of freedom and tolerance. There were also several terrorist attacks, including a stabbing rampage in Nice in October that left three people dead.

Despite the challenges of 2020, France continued to make progress in areas such as renewable energy and sustainable transportation. The country also hosted the Tour de France, which was postponed from its original dates due to the pandemic but eventually took place in August and September.