France - February 2025

On 27 February, the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) found a violation of the right to life in the case of a student killed during a protest in 2014. The student died as the result of a grenade explosion as police dispersed protesters opposing the construction of a dam in Lisle-sur-Tarn. The dam project was later cancelled, and rallies were organized in tribute to the student across France after his death. The court found authorities failed to ensure the requisite level of protection to avert risk to life, and found failures of the gendarmerie’s management in the conduct of the dispersal operation. The ECHR ordered France to compensate the student’s relatives with a fine (between EUR 5,600 and EUR 16,000). The ruling highlights police tactics and the use of force during protests, prompting calls for reform and setting a precedent for victims of police violence.

Sources: ECHR (1), ECHR (2), RFI, JURIST, RadioFrance, Le Monde, franceinfo, Public Senat