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Demonstrators of a large union outside the French National Assembly against the law
AP Photo / Michel Euler
Despite strong reactions from citizens, journalists’ associations and rights organizations, the French National Assembly voted in favor of the most controversial article of the bill on so-called “universal security”, which restricts the transmission of images of police officers on duty, after receiving assurances from the government that the “right to information” will be guaranteed.
However, this provision is considered by the media and human rights organizations as a potential obstacle to free information. sparking protests in many cities in France against the “murderous liberties law”, as it is characterized, as it offers unprecedented coverage to the police. The law prohibits the publication of photographs or videos of police officers if it is considered that there is an intention to insult the physical or mental condition of the police officer.
Journalists’ associations have complained that the measure will apply not only to the media, but to any citizen who photographs or videotapes a police operation, while Amnesty International and Reporters Without Borders say the word “intention” it is vague and difficult to prove. The police could use the law to censor and for other purposes, such as covering up any violent behavior.
For his part, Interior Minister Gerald Darmanen argued that the law “reaffirms the balance between freedom of information and the protection of the forces of order.”
The Government modified the controversial article, which punishes one year in prison and a fine of 45,000 euros to anyone who distributes “face images or any other identification” to police officers on duty if their “physical or mental integrity” is threatened. The amendment, approved by 146 votes to 24, clarifies that this measure “cannot harm the right to information” and that malicious intent against the forces of order must be “evident”.
Lawmakers on the left, as well as some lawmakers from the center-right MoDem party, allies of the presidential majority, have called for the article to be repealed entirely.
