Rosalind Evans
In a pivotal ruling, France’s supreme administrative authority, the Council of State, dismissed assertions by rights advocates that the nation’s police force systemically engages in racial profiling. This contention had explicitly targeted the alleged targeted checks of Black and Arab individuals.
This case emerged from a class-action lawsuit in 2021, pioneered by globally recognized rights groups such as Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch, Open Society Justice Initiative, and local grassroots entities, including Pazapas, led by Issa Coulibaly. These organizations ardently contended that racial profiling was a widespread and systemic issue within French law enforcement. Their complaint was backed by a 220-page document packed with racial profiling instances.
In the judgement, the Council of State acknowledged that French police sometimes halt individuals based on physical appearance. Moreover, these incidents weren’t seen as mere anomalies but were harmful to those at the receiving end. However, the Council refuted that such practices were systemic or widespread.
The ruling elicited mixed reactions. Although some plaintiffs found solace in recognizing that discriminatory checks occur, many were left despondent. Issa Coulibaly, Black and the head of the Parisian youth association Pazapas articulated his disappointment, stating, “These high judicial authorities have failed to understand the violence and exclusion generated by these police practices.” He lamented the missed chance to facilitate the daily experiences of countless French citizens, especially those seen as Black or Arab.
Historically, the Council of State stands as the ultimate referee on matters concerning the exercise of power by the French authorities. This lawsuit, which marks France’s inaugural class-action case against its police force, was elevated to the Council after the government didn’t respond within the mandated four-month timeframe. The Council conducted a landmark hearing on this case just a month ago.
Despite these claims and evidence, the French government has consistently negated systemic discrimination within its police force.
In light of these developments, the debate surrounding racial profiling in France remains heated. France has clarified its stance with the Council of State’s ruling, but grassroots organizations and rights groups remain steadfast in pursuing reform and justice.
