The European Court of Human Rights has ruled against France over the 2014 death of activist Rémi Fraisse, highlighting concerns over police tactics and the use of force during protests.
In a landmark decision, Europe's top human rights court has called on France to rethink its policing methods after a ruling on Thursday condemned the country for a 2014 law enforcement operation that led to the death of 21-year-old environmental activist Rémi Fraisse.
Fraisse – a passionate botany student – was killed during protests against a planned dam in Sivens, near the southern French city of Toulouse.
He was struck by a stun grenade during clashes between demonstrators and police, sparking widespread unrest in several French cities.
France bans police use of grenades that killed dam protester
The European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) determined that France had violated Article 2 – the right to life – of the European Convention on Human Rights, citing inadequate safeguards against the use of potentially lethal force.
The ruling highlighted the dangers of the OF-F1 grenade – an explosive device unique to France at the time – which was ultimately banned in 2017.
'Inappropriate use of force'
Recognising the challenges law enforcement faces in handling tense situations, the court nonetheless emphasised the need for greater protection in crowd control operations.
In response, France will compensate Fraisse’s family with payments ranging from €5,600 to €16,000.
For many – including Jean-Pierre Fraisse, Rémi’s father – the ruling is a long-awaited acknowledgment of responsibility.
"It has taken more than ten years and the support of the European Court of Human Rights for the French state's responsibility in the death of Rémi Fraisse to be finally recognised. What a waste of time," said lawyer Patrice Spinosi, representing Jean-Pierre Fraisse.
"The inappropriate use of force during the demonstrations against the Sivens dam is now established. To avoid further condemnation, France must now draw all the consequences of this decision and thoroughly review its policy on maintaining order," he added.
Government still grappling with controversial Sivens dam project
The verdict from the Strasbourg-based court also reaffirmed that the criminal investigation into the incident was conducted independently and impartially.
However, with the inappropriate use of force now officially established, legal experts and activists alike are urging France to take decisive action in reforming its policing strategies.
