The French Senate has voted to approve a draft law that would allow authorities to seek compensation from individuals responsible for damage caused during demonstrations. The bill proposes fines of up to €10,000, approximately Sh1.45 million. This move comes after recent unrest in France over inequality and rising living costs. The Senate passed an expanded version of the bill by a vote of 229 to 105 on October 28.
The bill was originally drafted after riots that followed Paris Saint-Germain's victory over Arsenal in the UEFA Champions League final in May. It has been revived due to the recent unrest. Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez told parliament that the government must act urgently to address the destruction witnessed during recent unrest. He argued that the majority of citizens should not bear the cost of a minority of vandals.
Critics of the bill warn that it could extend liability to participants who did not personally damage property but were part of a group that intended to commit vandalism. This raises concerns about collective punishment. The proposal also includes provisions allowing authorities to seize welfare benefits and housing assistance to cover compensation costs. This clause has drawn opposition from left-wing lawmakers and human-rights groups.
The bill now proceeds to the National Assembly, where it will be debated and must secure approval before it can become law. If passed, it would be part of a broader European trend toward stricter penalties for violent protests. For example, Italy recently introduced a security decree imposing prison terms of four to twelve years for organizers of violent demonstrations.
The French Senate's approval of the bill was supported by a right-wing and centrist alliance. The vote count was 229 in favor and 105 against. The government has been seeking ways to address the issue of vandalism during protests. The bill aims to hold individuals accountable for damage caused during demonstrations.
Human rights groups and left-wing lawmakers have expressed concerns about the bill's potential impact on protesters. They argue that it could lead to unfair punishment and infringe on the right to protest. The bill's provisions on seizing welfare benefits and housing assistance have been particularly contentious.
The bill's fate will now be decided in the National Assembly. If passed, it could have significant implications for protesters in France. The government has argued that the bill is necessary to protect public property and maintain order. The bill's impact on the right to protest and freedom of assembly will be closely watched.
Key points
- France's Senate approves bill holding demonstrators financially liable for property damage
- Bill proposes fines of up to €10,000, approximately Sh1.45 million
- Proposal includes provisions allowing authorities to seize welfare benefits and housing assistance
