Environmental Police in France Launch Nationwide Strike Over Safety and Support Concerns

The unprecedented protest by OFB agents highlights rising tensions with farmers and demands for better protection and resources.

The Office français de la biodiversité (OFB) agents, responsible for enforcing environmental regulations, initiated a nationwide strike on January 31, citing unsafe working conditions and lack of government support.
Tensions with the agricultural sector have escalated following accusations of aggressive inspections and threats, including calls to harm agents and vandalize their facilities.
A controversial December directive requiring agents to carry firearms discreetly during inspections has been criticized by OFB unions as unsafe and impractical, with demands for its repeal.
Unions are calling for increased protection of OFB staff and facilities, restoration of funding, and a halt to proposed staffing cuts affecting the agency's 3,000 employees.
Prime Minister François Bayrou's comments labeling some OFB inspections as a 'fault' and 'humiliation' have further fueled discontent, with unions demanding a formal letter of support for agents.