Thousands protest in France against police use-of-force bill

Thousands of demonstrators took to the streets in cities across France on Sunday to protest a proposed amendment that would create a legal presumption that police officers acted lawfully when discharging their weapons. Organisers, including several civil‑rights groups, described the measure as a “licence to kill” and urged lawmakers to withdraw it before it reaches a vote in the National Assembly.

The draft legislation, introduced by the ruling party, seeks to shift the burden of proof onto victims or their families in cases of police‑involved shootings, thereby limiting the scope of investigations and potential prosecutions. Critics argue that the bill undermines accountability and contravenes France’s commitments to human‑rights standards, while supporters contend it will protect officers from unfounded accusations. Police presence was reported in several protest zones, and no major incidents were recorded. The demonstration adds pressure on parliamentarians as the debate over the amendment intensifies ahead of the scheduled parliamentary session next week.