Emmanuel Macron is facing criticism from trade unions and human rights organizations as the French government has accelerated procedures for a bill aimed at making protesters pay for the cost of damage caused by acts of vandalism.
Under the initiative, fines could reach up to 10,000 euros, while the use of drones to monitor demonstrations would also be expanded. The French Senate is expected to consider the bill this week.
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For more than a month, high school students in France have been protesting the shortage of teachers, the deteriorating condition of school buildings and the changes they are demanding to the university application platform.
Trade unions and representatives of the yellow vests, who oppose the government’s policies, have joined the protests. The rising cost of living and the weakening of public services are also at the heart of the discontent.
Following incidents of violence, looting and arson during some of the recent rallies, authorities have tightened security measures and imposed restrictions on the organization of protests.
Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu has defended the initiative, calling it “absolutely necessary”. According to him, the bill will help combat vandalism and protect public and private property.
The bill was initially drafted after violent clashes erupted in May following Paris Saint-Germain’s victory over Arsenal in the Champions League final.
Meanwhile, authorities have banned several protests, prevented gatherings near schools and rallies in urban centers, and imposed curfews in certain areas.
Representatives of the left and trade unions say the proposed measures could discourage citizens from taking part in peaceful protests, as they may fear being held responsible for damage caused by other people.
The debate over the bill is taking place ahead of the 2027 presidential election. Marine Le Pen, the leader of the far right and the National Rally party, is seeking to consolidate her profile as a law-and-order politician and supporter of the police.
Demonstrations have long been an important form of expressing civic opposition in France, from pension reforms to legal changes concerning same-sex marriage.
