The French government has been accused by a European committee of failing to address persistent abuses in migrant detention centers. A recent report by the European Committee for the Prevention of Torture and Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment, a body under the Council of Europe, expressed concerns over deteriorating conditions and increased mistreatment of migrants. The committee's report, published in October, followed a visit to France in October 2025.
The report highlighted that detention conditions have not improved since the committee's previous visit in 2018. In fact, six administrative detention centers and two migrant holding areas at Charles de Gaulle and Lyon Saint-Exupéry airports showed further decline. The committee noted poor facilities, inadequate hygiene and healthcare, and a lack of suitable activities for detainees. The maximum detention period has been extended to 90 days, up from 30 days in 2018.
Migrants have reported being subjected to physical abuse, verbal mistreatment, and racist provocations by police officers. The committee documented these incidents in all the centers it visited. Additionally, there has been an increase in violence among detainees, including fights, theft, and extortion. Many victims are reluctant to file complaints due to fear of reprisal or loss of trust in the system.
The committee's chair, Alain Mitchell, warned that the combination of these conditions creates "real powder kegs" in detention centers. He criticized the policy of prolonged detention, which now averages three times the duration of 2018. Mitchell emphasized that detention should be a last resort, particularly when deportation is not a realistic prospect.
The report also raised concerns about the treatment of unaccompanied minors, calling for specialized care and accommodation that prioritizes their best interests. The committee urged the French government to ensure that detention centers provide a safe and dignified environment for all migrants.
The report's findings have renewed criticism of France's handling of migrant detention centers. The government faces accusations of failing to implement previous recommendations aimed at protecting the dignity of detainees. The persistence of these issues despite European warnings raises questions about France's commitment to upholding the fundamental rights of migrants.
The European Committee's report has put pressure on the French government to address the systemic problems in its migrant detention centers. The government must now respond to these concerns and work towards improving conditions and protecting the rights of migrants.
Key points
- France faces criticism for failing to address abuses in migrant detention centers
- Detention conditions have deteriorated, with reports of physical and verbal abuse
- The French government must implement recommendations to protect migrant rights
