Overview

• La France Insoumise (LFI) has proposed repealing the 2014 law criminalizing the apology of terrorism, arguing it undermines freedom of expression and has been misused politically.
• The proposal, led by LFI deputy Ugo Bernalicis, seeks to return such cases to the 1881 press law framework, which had stricter procedural safeguards.
• Critics, including government officials, opposition parties, and victims' associations, have condemned the move as dangerous, accusing LFI of downplaying the threat of terrorism.
• Legal experts are divided, with some highlighting the 2014 law's alleged overreach, while others warn that LFI's approach could leave gaps in prosecuting hate speech and terrorism glorification.
• The debate reflects broader tensions in France over balancing free speech with security concerns, particularly in the context of rising antisemitism and recent terrorist attacks.