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French Bill on “Renewed Antisemitism” Set for Committee Review as Critics Raise Free‑Speech Concerns

Opponents say the proposal’s scope threatens free expression by sweeping criticism of Israeli policy into a legal definition of antisemitism.

Overview

  • Renaissance MP Caroline Yadan filed the proposal, which the Assemblée nationale’s commission des lois is scheduled to examine on January 20.
  • The draft has backing from several dozen deputies, with L’Humanité reporting support from five socialists including François Hollande and Jérôme Guedj.
  • Coverage warns the text could criminalize criticism of Israeli government actions or expressions of solidarity with Palestinians if adopted without changes.
  • An opinion piece argues the measure tracks IHRA-style definitions that blur anti‑Zionism with antisemitism and could restrict historical comparisons.
  • L’Humanité cites the case of comedian Guillaume Meurice to suggest satire might face prosecution under the bill, while no law has yet been passed.