Rights groups call French 'rioters pay' law anti-democratic

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French Senate takes up 'rioters pay' bill as rights groups warn of curbs on protest

On Tuesday the French Senate took up a bill making rioters pay for damage from recent unrest, and rights groups called it anti-democratic. The bill also contains an add-on letting the government block platforms slow to act on reports of dangerous content. On Monday the government offered students concessions, including phasing out an unpopular university admissions system by 2028, while student unions called for fresh demonstrations on Saturday, October 31.

• Critics say the law, which would make rioters liable for thousands of euros in damage, could undermine the right to protest; the government proposed it to curb looting and vandalism.
• On Monday Macron ruled out a state of emergency for now and promised concrete measures after meeting student unions.
• Unions hailed progress but want further measures and have called for demonstrations on October 31.
• The interior ministry said at least 1,300 people were arrested during Saturday's protests, with at least 50 officers and three protesters hurt.