Protesters Rally Across France Against Controversial Police Use-of-Force Bill

Thousands demonstrated in Paris and cities nationwide on Sunday, opposing a proposed law that would legalize the use of force by police officers, sparking concerns over potential abuses of authority.

The legislation, approved by the National Assembly in July, establishes a presumption of legality for any police action involving force. Critics argue it could undermine accountability, as it shifts the burden of proof onto citizens to justify police actions. The bill now awaits a Senate vote.

Demonstrators included prominent politicians, human rights organizations, and activists, with Mathilde Panot, a leader of the France Unbowed party, addressing the crowd in Paris.

Panot emphasized the existing problem of police violence, stating, “The police kill already,” and called on Senate members to reject the proposed legislation.

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