France News Today

French news in English

Wednesday, April 2, 2025

France Redefines Sexual Consent Laws

French lawmakers have taken a significant step by adopting a bill that redefines sexual assault, including rape, as any non-consensual sexual act. The proposal, passed with 161 votes in favor and 56 against, aims to shift the focus from the victim's behavior to the perpetrator's actions.

3 h

Politics

France Passes Anti-Narcotraffic Law

The French National Assembly has passed a new law aimed at combating narcotrafficking, with 436 votes in favor and 75 against. The legislation, supported by the government and several political groups, introduces measures like a National Anti-Organized Crime Prosecutor's Office and stricter detention rules for dangerous criminals.

15 h

Politics

Paris Migrant Camp Evacuated Amid Tensions

Young migrants who had been living in tents along the Seine in Paris were evacuated by police on April 1. This followed their earlier expulsion from the Gaîté Lyrique theater, where they had stayed for three months demanding proper housing.

15 h

World

Le Pen vs Bardella: RN's Future

The political future of France's far-right Rassemblement National (RN) is under scrutiny as Marine Le Pen faces potential ineligibility due to legal issues. Some argue that it is tactically better for Le Pen to remain eligible for the 2027 presidential race, as her fourth attempt might weaken the party's chances compared to the younger and more promising Jordan Bardella.

Yesterday

Politics

France-Algeria Relations Restart

France and Algeria are working to mend their strained relationship after months of tension. Presidents Emmanuel Macron and Abdelmadjid Tebboune held a phone call to restart cooperation on security and migration.

Yesterday

Politics

Marine Le Pen Faces Political Ban

Marine Le Pen, leader of France's National Rally (RN), has been handed an immediate ineligibility sentence, barring her from running for office. This decision stems from the "parliamentary assistants" case, sparking international reactions.

Yesterday

Politics

Michelin Stars Shine Bright in Metz

The 116th Michelin Guide ceremony in Metz celebrated the best of French gastronomy, awarding 78 new stars for 2025. Christopher Coutanceau and Hugo Roellinger were the highlights, each earning three stars for their exceptional culinary artistry.

Yesterday

Culture

Record Evictions Spark Housing Crisis Alarm

As France's winter eviction ban ends, alarming figures reveal a record 24,000 households were evicted in 2024, doubling the number from a decade ago. Advocacy groups warn of a worsening housing crisis, with over 4.

Yesterday

Social Issues

Controversy Over Crépol Tragedy Book

The publication of "Une nuit en France," a book investigating the 2023 Crépol tragedy, has sparked outrage among the family of Thomas, the 16-year-old victim. The book, written by Jean-Michel Décugis, Pauline Guéna, and Marc Leplongeon, revisits the fatal stabbing during a village event but has been criticized for its narrative.

28 March, 10:00

Society

Sarkozy Faces Historic Corruption Charges

Former French President Nicolas Sarkozy faces a historic trial over allegations of illegal campaign financing linked to Libya. The National Financial Prosecutor's Office has demanded a seven-year prison sentence, a €300,000 fine, and five years of ineligibility for Sarkozy.

28 March, 10:00

Politics

French Probe Targets Russian Oligarch

French authorities are investigating Russian billionaire Souleïman Kerimov over alleged money laundering and tax fraud linked to luxury villas on the Côte d’Azur. The Paris prosecutor’s office confirmed a rare raid at the Ministry of Economy and Finance, aiming to uncover details of a fiscal arrangement involving over €38 million.

28 March, 01:13

World

Allies Unite for Ukraine Peace

World leaders gathered in Paris to discuss a unified approach to achieving lasting peace in Ukraine. French President Emmanuel Macron emphasized the importance of strengthening Ukraine’s military, announcing a €2 billion aid package that includes advanced weaponry and defense systems.

27 March, 16:16

World

Family Under Scrutiny in Missing Child Case

The investigation into the disappearance of two-year-old Emile Soleil in July 2023 has taken a dramatic turn. Emile vanished while vacationing at his grandparents' home in the Haut-Vernet, a remote hamlet in the French Alps.

27 March, 06:42

Crime

France Debates Low-Emission Zones

France's low-emission zones (ZFE), implemented in cities with over 150,000 residents since January 2025, are facing growing opposition. Critics argue these zones unfairly impact low-income drivers, as older vehicles are banned, leaving millions unable to afford replacements.

27 March, 06:42

Politics

Zelensky Seeks European Military Support

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is urging European nations to provide military aid and troops to bolster Ukraine's defense against Russia. In a meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron, Zelensky emphasized the need for increased drone production and air defense systems, highlighting Ukraine's disadvantage in artillery compared to Russia.

26 March, 21:59

World

Pierre Palmade's Prison Appeal Stirs Debate

French comedian Pierre Palmade, serving a five-year sentence for causing a serious car accident under the influence of drugs, has been granted a conditional release to serve his sentence under electronic monitoring. However, the Bordeaux prosecutor's office has appealed the decision, temporarily halting his release.

26 March, 17:40

Law

Depardieu Faces Courtroom Drama

The trial of Gérard Depardieu for alleged sexual harassment and assault during the filming of "Les Volets Verts" has sparked intense emotions and controversy. Actress Anouk Grinberg, who supports the accusers, was expelled from the courtroom after expressing outrage at the defense's conduct, calling the proceedings a "carpet of lies.

26 March, 17:40

Entertainment

Far-Right Leaders Attend Israeli Conference

In a historic move, Jordan Bardella and Marion Maréchal, prominent figures of France's far-right Rassemblement National, attended an international conference against antisemitism in Jerusalem. Invited by Israel's Minister of Diaspora Affairs, the visit marks a significant shift for the party, long associated with controversial antisemitic remarks by its founder, Jean-Marie Le Pen.

26 March, 12:59

Politics

Saint-Étienne Mayor Faces Sextape Trial

The mayor of Saint-Étienne, Gaël Perdriau, is set to face trial over allegations of orchestrating a sextape scandal to blackmail his former deputy, Gilles Artigues. The case, which has shaken the city since its revelation in 2022, accuses Perdriau of blackmail, misuse of public funds, and involvement in a criminal association.

26 March, 12:59

Politics

France Faces Defense vs. Social Spending Dilemma

France is grappling with a critical debate over balancing military and social spending. As Europe faces heightened security challenges, including the war in Ukraine and reduced U.

26 March, 12:59

Politics

France's Population to Peak in 2040

France's population is projected to reach 70 million by the 2040s before gradually declining to 68 million by 2070, according to a new study by the National Institute for Demographic Studies (INED). Currently at 68.

26 March, 08:15

Demographics

Sarkozy Faces Corruption Trial

The trial of former French President Nicolas Sarkozy over alleged Libyan financing of his 2007 presidential campaign has reached a critical stage. Prosecutors have accused Sarkozy and his associates of forming a "pact of corruption" with Libyan dictator Muammar Gaddafi, involving millions of euros in illegal funding.

26 March, 03:44

Politics

France Rallies for Jailed Writer

Hundreds gathered near the French National Assembly to demand the release of Franco-Algerian writer Boualem Sansal, detained in Algeria since November. Political leaders from various parties, including the Assembly and Senate presidents, joined the rally, calling his imprisonment a violation of free expression.

26 March, 03:43

Politics

Rabbi Attack Sparks Antisemitism Debate

The recent attack on Rabbi Arié Engelberg in Orléans has reignited concerns over rising antisemitism in France. The 16-year-old suspect, who denies initiating the assault, is set to face trial in April.

25 March, 23:16

Politics

French Jets Collide During Airshow Practice

Two Alpha Jets from the Patrouille de France collided mid-air during a practice session near Air Base 113 in Saint-Dizier, France. The incident occurred on March 25, 2025, at 3:35 PM.

25 March, 23:16

Accidents