Former Afghan interpreters for the French army organised parallel protests in Kabul and Paris on Tuesday, citing death threats from Islamist insurgents and demanding visas, reports FRANCE 24.
Nearly 100 ex-interpreters gathered near the French embassy in the Afghan capital, holding banners calling for protection and solidarity from their former employer.
The protesters were nevertheless promptly dispersed by local police.
"Why are we still here in Kabul? Why were our demands rejected by the French government?" asked Khodadad Adib, 28, a representative of the interpreters.
"We were with the soldiers in sometimes dangerous places. Today we find ourselves in a difficult situation, but the army is no longer with us," Adib explained.
The interpreters said they are in danger after working with French troops deployed against the Taliban insurgency.
Habib, who lives with relatives in Parwan province north of Kabul, said he had received several anonymous letters threatening him and his family with death.
"Sometimes I have to wear a burqa to go out on the street and go to work. My father wears a mask to go to the mosque, my brothers do not go to school anymore," he said.
He said his visa application was refused in 2013, and again in 2015.