Alma Terral :
The world is watching France through images of unrest, curfews, and heavy police deployments. But the French government also has legal obligations: to protect peaceful protests, respect fundamental human rights, and ensure that any restrictions on civil liberties are necessary and proportionate.
These protests are not just about high school students. They also reflect broader concerns about the cost of living, public services, education, working conditions, and human dignity.
Reports of excessive police force deserve independent investigation. Violence against people and property must also be addressed, without treating peaceful protesters as responsible for the actions of others.
On October 24, we ask the world to look beyond the images of unrest and pay attention to French citizens, their demands, and how the authorities uphold their rights.
To French and international media: provide independent, comprehensive coverage. Give peaceful protesters a voice. Explain their demands. Document police actions. Scrutinize restrictions on civil liberties and hold public authorities accountable for their decisions.
Do not simply broadcast confrontations. Investigate the conditions that led people into the streets, the decisions made by those in power, and their consequences for ordinary citizens.
Maintaining public order does not excuse violations of fundamental rights. Protecting those rights is one of the government's most important responsibilities.
Journalism should not only show what happens in the streets. It should also examine what those in power are doing and make sure the voices of affected citizens are heard.
2026-10-21 10:39:13