The French Government Agrees To Revise The State Security Bill Because Of The People's Demonstration
JAKARTA - The French government finally decided to revise the contents of the State Security Bill which was considered controversial. This was done in response to the public pressure that had come down in large demonstrations since the last few days.
Launching Euronews, Tuesday, December 1, the announcement of the revision came directly from the parliamentary group representing President Emmanuel Macron's party, LREM (La République en Marche).
LREM Parliament Leader Christophe Castener said he would immediately revise the measures contained in article 24. The article contains offenses and penalties for French citizens who take pictures of police officers on duty.
"We know that doubts are still there and we have to get rid of these doubts. Because when such misunderstandings do not cease to escalate on such fundamental subjects, we have an obligation to question ourselves collectively," said Castaner, a former interior minister.
Previously, tens of thousands of people took to the streets across France at the weekend to protest against the State Security Act. In connection with this action, 98 members of the security forces were injured and 81 protesters were arrested.
According to those who are contra, the bill will limit press freedom and by itself destroy the accountability of the police in the eyes of the public. Opponents of the bill also think the rule will later endanger French journalists and citizens who try to take pictures of violence from the police.
In addition, those who oppose the bill are of the opinion that documenting various actions of police officers that perpetuate violence is a form of concern. This is an effort so that the police can stop violent means of enforcing the law.
Not only French citizens. The controversial bill has even been criticized by the European Union. The organization that houses European countries has reminded France to protect journalists. The European Union also invited France to re-examine the controversial State Security Bill in order to ensure press freedom.