Critics Slam French Bill That Could Make Rioters Pay for Protest Damage
France’s proposed law requiring rioters to pay up to €10,000 for damage caused during demonstrations has drawn criticism from human rights groups and legal experts. The bill, debated in parliament this week, aims to compensate victims of vandalism and looting amid growing social unrest. However, critics warn that its wording could expose peaceful protesters who were merely present near violent incidents to legal action.
Under the proposed legislation, people who knowingly belong to a group in which a member causes damage could be held jointly responsible for the costs. The state could also seize welfare benefits from convicted individuals or, in cases involving minors, from their parents. Lawyer Hanna Bouchareb said the measure could undermine the right to peaceful protest. The French Human Rights League and trade union representatives have also called for the bill to be scrapped.
The French government argues that the legislation would help businesses and individuals recover losses caused by vandalism and forced shop closures. Interior Minister Laurent Nunez defended the proposal, describing it as joint rather than collective responsibility. While supporters point to public backing for tougher measures, Marine Le Pen’s National Rally party has called for the €10,000 compensation limit to be removed. The debate comes amid renewed tensions between demonstrators and police across France.
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