Facial checks in France: a persistent and worrying reality
Facial checks, discriminatory practices in which individuals are targeted by law enforcement because of their physical appearance or ethnic origin, are a persistent reality in France. Although widely documented for years, this practice continues to spark outrage and face criticism from human rights defenders.
In a recent decision, the Council of State, seized of a group action brought by six NGOs and associations, recognized the existence of facial checks, emphasizing that these practices are not limited to isolated cases. Although the highest administrative court refused to force the State to remedy this situation, it still required the Ministry of the Interior to make the police personnel number on their uniforms legible within twelve months. .
This decision by the Council of State highlights the need to take concrete measures to combat facial checks. NGOs and associations have long called for measures such as the issuance of a receipt after each check, the prohibition of discrimination in identity checks and the redefinition of public policy regarding the use of identity checks.
It is important to emphasize that facial checks have harmful consequences on the people who are victims of them. Not only does this lead to discrimination and stigmatization based on physical appearance, but it also harms trust between citizens and law enforcement. To build a more just and egalitarian society, it is essential to put an end to these discriminatory practices.
It should be noted that France has been condemned on several occasions for facial checks. However, despite these condemnations and continued calls from human rights organizations, little progress has been made in preventing this unacceptable practice.
It is therefore necessary to continue to raise awareness and mobilize public opinion on this issue. Facial checks have no place in a democratic society that respects human rights. It is time for the authorities to take concrete steps to put an end to it and guarantee equal rights for all citizens, regardless of their physical appearance or ethnic origin.