The French National Assembly voted Tuesday, July 7, 2026, to adopt a law presuming that police and gendarmerie firearm use is lawful [2].
The measure alters the legal burden of proof for law enforcement officers. By establishing a presumption of legitimate defense, the law aims to protect officers from legal jeopardy when they use weapons in the line of duty.
The legislation passed with 313 votes in favor and 199 against [1]. Supporters, including LR deputy Eric Pauget, said the law provides necessary legal security for officers facing dangerous situations. They said the presumption ensures officers can act decisively without fear of immediate prosecution.
However, the vote took place amid intense opposition. Assa Traoré disrupted the proceedings at the Palais-Bourbon in Paris, shouting, "Pas de justice, pas de paix" [3]. This sentiment is echoed by human rights organizations and activists who said the law undermines accountability and the right to life.
Amnesty International said the new law would offer law enforcement a "permis de tuer" — or a permit to kill [4]. Critics said that by presuming the legality of a shooting, the state removes a critical layer of judicial scrutiny and creates a culture of impunity.
Public backlash has been swift. A petition against the law has gathered approximately 400,000 signatures [5]. Opponents said that the presumption of legitimacy shifts the burden of proof onto the victims or their families, making it harder to challenge police violence in court.
“"Pas de justice, pas de paix"”
This law represents a significant shift in French jurisprudence regarding state violence. By moving from a neutral investigation of firearm use to a legal presumption of legitimacy, France is prioritizing officer legal protection over the traditional presumption of innocence for those targeted by police. This is likely to increase tensions between the state and marginalized communities, while potentially complicating France's standing with international human rights monitors.
