French Senate backs bill to make protesters pay for unrest damage despite rights concern
Summary
France’s Senate approved a bill that could make people financially liable for damage linked to demonstrations, including through the seizure of some benefits. The bill now goes to the National Assembly, while critics say its provisions could affect peaceful protesters and weaken the right to protest.Key Facts
- The Senate passed the bill by 229 votes to 105.
- The bill would allow fines of up to €10,000 for damage caused during demonstrations.
- It would impose joint liability on people found to have knowingly joined a group formed to commit vandalism.
- The bill also covers people who continue taking part in a gathering likely to disrupt public order after two police dispersal warnings.
- Welfare and housing assistance could be seized to help pay for damages; senators expanded the list to include additional benefits.
- The legislation was drafted after riots following Paris Saint-Germain’s Champions League final victory over Arsenal in May.
- Interior Minister Laurent Nunez said the government needed to respond to damage and violence reported on October 17.
- The National Assembly must debate and vote on the bill.
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