France Braces for Nationwide Rallies Defending Rule of Law

Dozens of civil society groups organize protests in response to far-right criticism of judiciary following Marine Le Pen's conviction.

Rallies are scheduled across France on April 12, 2025, organized by over thirty civil society groups, including SOS Racisme, Greenpeace, and the Ligue des Droits de l’Homme.
The protests aim to defend democratic principles and judicial independence after Marine Le Pen's conviction for misusing public funds.
Marine Le Pen received a five-year ineligibility and a four-year prison sentence, prompting the Rassemblement National to accuse the judiciary of bias and conspiracy.
Concerns over turnout have been raised due to the short notice of the rallies and overlapping school holidays, potentially limiting participation.
Key locations for the demonstrations include Paris, Nantes, Rouen, and Strasbourg, with events planned throughout the day.