French President Emmanuel Macron is facing criticism over a proposed law that could force protesters to pay for vandalism they did not personally commit.
According to The Guardian, the government’s controversial “vandals pay” bill would allow authorities to impose penalties of up to €10,000 on demonstrators who remain near acts of vandalism or belong to the same group as those responsible.
The legislation, which also proposes increased drone surveillance, comes amid widespread protests over education, living costs and public services.
Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu defended the bill as “absolutely essential” following incidents of looting, fires and property damage during recent demonstrations.
However, trade unions and human rights organisations warn that the measures could discourage peaceful protests.
In an open letter published by Le Monde, campaigners described the legislation as “a serious attack on the freedom to demonstrate”.
Meanwhile, far-right leader Marine Le Pen has backed tougher penalties, promising to “bring back order to France” ahead of next year’s presidential election.
Macron’s government has already introduced restrictions on demonstrations, including bans in some city centres and near schools.
The proposed legislation will be debated in the French Senate this week as the government faces growing pressure to address protesters’ demands.
