‘Labelled terrorists’: How France is using anti-terror powers to deter protests
Summary
French authorities have used anti-terrorism powers to restrict several dozen people from attending protests after riots and looting followed demonstrations on October 17, 2026. Lawyers and rights groups say the restrictions target political activists who pose no terrorism threat and could limit the right to protest.Key Facts
- Protests across France have drawn hundreds of thousands of people over concerns including underfunded schools, the cost of living, and police brutality.
- After riots and looting on October 17, the government barred several dozen people from attending later demonstrations.
- Those restricted included students, trade unionists, far-left activists, and environmental campaigners.
- The restrictions were issued without prior approval from judges.
- The measure, known as MICAS, lets the Interior Ministry restrict a person's movements when there are serious reasons to believe the person poses a grave security threat and has terrorist ties.
- People subject to MICAS orders may have to report to a police station daily or weekly; violations can carry up to three years in prison and a €45,000 fine.
- Lawyers and rights groups say the current orders target political activists rather than people posing a terrorism threat.
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