Protests erupted across the country today over a proposed French security law restricting the sharing of police images.
Dozens of rallies are taking place against the controversial bill, although it has been approved by the lower house of parliament.
Civil Liberties groups and journalists are concerned that the move will undermine media freedom and prevent police brutality from being detected and punished.
The cause gained new prominence in the days following the release of footage of French police officers beating a black man and causing nationwide protests.
President Emmanuel Macron spoke out against the video yesterday, saying, “They are embarrassing us.”
Macron’s remarks are his first since he noticed police use of force unnecessarily.
A video released on Thursday showed musician Michael Seckler being beaten following footage of police brutally evacuating immigrants from Paris Plaza on Tuesday.
The officers who beat Sekler were suspended as an internal investigation was underway.
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Article 24 of the new bill criminalizes the publication of images of police officers on duty, endangering “physical or mental integrity.” Anyone found guilty faces up to a year in prison and a $ 45,000 fine.
Fearing that the law with vague words would be widely applied, critics labeled it dictatorial.
Protesters calling for the article to be withdrawn say it is against the “fundamental public liberties” of their democracy.
Prime Minister Jean Costex on Friday announced that he would appoint a commission to overhaul Article 24, but withdrew following anger from politicians.
The commission is expected to issue new directions early next year on the relationship between the media and the police.
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