France Rebuts UN Claims of Systemic Racism in Police Force

For the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the French law enforcement agencies are subject to a level of internal, external and judicial control that few countries can claim to have. The fight against racism and all forms of discrimination is at the heart of the missions of France and its law enforcement agencies, without any ambiguity, it is asserted.

In respect of the right of French citizens to peacefully enjoy public space and to freely express their opinions there, the law enforcement agencies demonstrate, according to France, exceptional professionalism in the face of situations and acts of extreme violence. The use of force by the national police and gendarmerie is strictly regulated and controlled, guided by the principles of absolute necessity and proportionality, it is said, recalling that 249 police officers were injured during the violence affecting the country.

"We are concerned about the killing of a 17-year-old of North African origin by the police in France on Tuesday. We note that an investigation has been opened into allegations of voluntary homicide. This is the moment for the country to seriously address the deep-rooted problems of racism and discrimination within the law enforcement," Ravina Shamdasani, spokeswoman for the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), had previously stated.

"We also stress the importance of coming together calmly. We call on the authorities to ensure that the use of force by the police to combat violent elements during demonstrations always respects the principles of legality, necessity, proportionality, non-discrimination, precaution and accountability. Any allegations of disproportionate use of force must be the subject of a prompt investigation," she added.