2024-11-09 09:30:00
Gang war in a growing number of cities, repeated shootings punctuated by the deaths of increasingly young adolescents, drug traffickers with increased financial power and influence operating even from their prison cells… The observation hardly makes any difference. doubt: France, after other European countries, is grappling with the scourge of drugs in new dimensions. Criminal groups thrive there on an illicit market estimated at more than 3.5 billion euros, posing an increasingly serious threat to the life of entire neighborhoods as well as to public health and even democracy.
Asymmetrical, unequal, the fight between traffickers ready to do anything and a democracy based on the rule of law requires a strengthening and adaptation of institutions and procedures. The announcements made in Marseille, Friday, November 8, by the Minister of the Interior, Bruno Retailleau, and by the Minister of Justice, Didier Migaud, go in this direction: the creation of a “national prosecutor’s office” against organized crime, now punishable by special assize courts composed only of magistrates to avoid pressure on juries, and the improvement of the regime of repentants who collaborate with justice are among the logical proposals inspired by a senatorial bill resulting from the report of the commission of inquiry published in May, as well as by the projects of former minister Eric Dupond-Moretti.
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However, several unclear areas surround this legislative mechanism, the parliamentary examination of which is planned for 2025, in particular on the precise perimeter of the new public prosecutor’s office and the rise in power of the current Anti-Narcotics Office. As for the immediate measures announced on Friday, they remain unclear both on the reinforcement of the staff of the Paris prosecutor’s office, to which a “coordination cell” would be attached, and on the resources devoted to jamming the telephone conversations of detainees at the “top of the criminal spectrum”. , who would be assigned to specialized prison areas.
Need for strong action on demand
But the martial language used by the two ministers displaying their desire to “stand together”beyond their differences in political sensitivity, cannot mask the large blind spots of their announcements, with which, significantly, the Minister of Health was not associated: information on addictions, reduction of risks for drug users and the treatment of drug addicts.
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Essential, the repression of trafficking and the pressure on the supply of illicit substances cannot be exercised effectively without, at the same time, solid action on demand and without a debate, nourished by foreign experiences, on the benefits and risks of partial decriminalization. At a time when consumption is becoming commonplace in many environments, from the most precarious to the most privileged, public authorities should also work to construct and disseminate a counter-narrative opposing that of social advancement through traffic.
A true “national cause”, the battle against drug trafficking requires building the conditions, if not for a consensus, at least for a political majority. This requires not only the addition of a solid preventive component, but also that the government distance itself from the confusion between drugs and immigration that the Minister of the Interior continues to maintain.
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**Interview with Drug Policy Expert Dr. Claire Fontaine on France’s Growing Drug Crisis**
**Editor:** Today, we have Dr. Claire Fontaine, a leading expert in drug policy and organized crime, to discuss the recent developments in France regarding the escalating gang wars and drug trafficking issues. Thank you for joining us, Dr. Fontaine.
**Dr. Fontaine:** Thank you for having me.
**Editor:** The French government has announced the creation of a national prosecutor’s office to address organized crime. What impact do you think this initiative will have on tackling the drug crisis in France?
**Dr. Fontaine:** Establishing a national prosecutor’s office dedicated to organized crime is a significant step forward. It signals a commitment to combating the increasingly sophisticated drug trafficking networks. By having specialized prosecutors who understand the complexities of these cases, we can enhance our legal framework to respond more effectively. However, the success of this initiative will depend on adequate resources and coordination among law enforcement agencies.
**Editor:** The proposed measures also include creating special courts to avoid juror pressure. How crucial do you think this is for ensuring justice?
**Dr. Fontaine:** It’s essential. The intimidation tactics employed by drug traffickers can severely compromise the integrity of jury trials. By shifting to a system with judges who are insulated from these threats, we can restore faith in the judicial process. It will encourage more cooperation from witnesses and victims, which is crucial for building strong cases against organized crime.
**Editor:** The report mentions an illicit drug market in France worth over 3.5 billion euros. What do you think are the root causes of this rapid growth?
**Dr. Fontaine:** Several factors contribute to the growth of the illicit drug market in France. The increasing demand for drugs, particularly among younger populations, combined with the financial power of organized crime groups, creates a lucrative environment for traffickers. Economic disparity and social instability in certain neighborhoods further fuel these issues, making them ripe for exploitation by criminal networks.
**Editor:** The government has also indicated it will improve protections for informants. How important is this aspect for the fight against drugs?
**Dr. Fontaine:** Protecting informants is vital. Many individuals fear for their lives when considering cooperating with law enforcement. Enhancing the regime for repentants can lead to critical intelligence, disrupt criminal operations, and ultimately save lives. The fear of retaliation must be mitigated to incentivize collaboration with authorities.
**Editor:** Do you believe that the tough rhetoric from the ministers reflects a genuine shift in approach, or is it merely political posturing?
**Dr. Fontaine:** While the language may seem martial, it could indicate a serious recognition of the crisis. The political climate in France requires strong action; citizens are demanding safety and effective governance. However, it’s essential that these announcements translate into concrete actions and not just rhetorical commitments.
**Editor:** as we look ahead to the parliamentary examination scheduled for 2025, what do you think should be the immediate focus areas for action?
**Dr. Fontaine:** Immediate focus should be on enhancing law enforcement capabilities, ensuring sufficient funding for the new prosecutor’s office, and establishing clear operational protocols. Additionally, addressing the root causes of drug demand through public health campaigns and community support measures will complement the repressive strategies, creating a more holistic approach to the drug crisis.
**Editor:** Thank you, Dr. Fontaine, for your insights on this pressing issue. It’s clear that addressing the drug crisis in France requires a multifaceted approach.
**Dr. Fontaine:** Thank you for having me. It’s a complex challenge, but with the right strategies, progress is possible.