Introduction
Freedom of expression and assembly are fundamental pillars of any democratic society. These rights enable individuals to express their opinions freely, participate in political and social affairs, and advocate for positive change. However, reports indicate that in 2023, the French government imposed restrictions on these freedoms, raising serious concerns regarding human rights violations and the shrinking of civic space. This report examines the violations of freedom of expression and assembly in France, focusing on the dissolution of the environmental group “Les Soulèvements de la Terre,” government actions against civil activists, and violent crackdowns on protests.
Incidents
- Dissolution of “Les Soulèvements de la Terre”
On March 25, 2023, large-scale protests erupted in Sainte-Soline, western France, against the construction of a massive water reservoir. The environmental group “Les Soulèvements de la Terre” played a key role in organizing and mobilizing demonstrators. During these protests, security forces used tear gas to disperse protesters. Subsequently, on June 21, 2023, French Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin officially announced the dissolution of the group, justifying the decision by alleging that the group had incited violence during the Sainte-Soline protests.
This move faced widespread backlash and severe criticism from international human rights organizations, including Human Rights Watch. Rights groups argue that dissolving an organization due to alleged violent actions by some of its members is a disproportionate measure. Instead, the government should ensure fair trials for those directly responsible for any violent acts.
- Threats to Cut Funding for the Human Rights League
In response to the organization’s condemnation of police violence during the Sainte-Soline protests, the French government threatened to cut public funding for the Human Rights League. Furthermore, a European Commission report in July 2023 highlighted the shrinking civic space in France, citing the suspension of public funding for certain associations and the revocation of their operating permits. These actions reflect government efforts to curtail the activities of civil society organizations and suppress dissent.
- Ban on Assemblies
According to Amnesty International’s 2023 report, the French government imposed excessive restrictions on protests, frequently citing security concerns. Police forces have repeatedly used violence and excessive force against protesters, including baton beatings, tear gas deployment, rubber bullets, and arbitrary arrests. International human rights organizations, including the Council of Europe and the United Nations, have expressed concern over the disproportionate use of force and urged reforms in police accountability mechanisms.
Local authorities in France have often invoked public order as a pretext to ban assemblies. These bans have disproportionately targeted protests and gatherings for specific causes. For instance, in October 2023, the French Minister of the Interior issued a directive instructing local officials to preemptively ban all solidarity rallies for Palestine. This measure sparked widespread criticism and was condemned as a disproportionate and discriminatory restriction on the right to peaceful assembly.
Other Human Rights Violations
- The Case of Laurent Théron: In 2016, Laurent Théron lost vision in one eye after being struck by a stun grenade thrown by a police officer during protests. Following his complaint, the European Court of Human Rights opened a case on alleged torture and ill-treatment.
- Live Ammunition Use in Mayotte: In Mayotte, police unlawfully fired live ammunition to disperse demonstrators protesting the expulsion of undocumented migrants.
- The Case of Adama Traoré’s Memorial Gathering: In July 2023, the administrative court of Cergy-Pontoise upheld a ban on a gathering commemorating Adama Traoré, who had died in police custody. Authorities cited “public order” concerns to justify the prohibition. During the crackdown, police made violent arrests, severely injuring Youssouf Traoré, Adama’s brother.
Overall, the French government’s actions in restricting freedom of expression and assembly contradict its international human rights commitments. Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) guarantees the right to freedom of expression, while Article 20 recognizes the right to freedom of assembly and association. Additionally, the European Convention on Human Rights safeguards these rights under Article 10 (freedom of expression) and Article 11 (freedom of assembly and association).
Under these international frameworks, states are obligated to uphold and protect freedom of expression and assembly, refraining from any measures that unduly restrict these rights. Any limitations must be legally justified, pursue a legitimate aim, and be necessary in a democratic society.
The French government’s actions—including dissolving “Les Soulèvements de la Terre,” threatening to cut funding for human rights organizations, employing excessive force against protesters, and banning assemblies—fail to meet these criteria and constitute human rights violations. Reports of violations of freedom of expression and assembly in France in 2023 highlight significant human rights challenges in the country. France must adhere to its international obligations and refrain from measures that undermine these fundamental freedoms.
