Critics of the newly approved law, including human rights organizations and legal experts, warn that it represents a dangerous step toward institutionalizing police impunity. By shifting the burden of proof, the legislation effectively makes it harder for victims' families and prosecutors to challenge the use of lethal force. Opponents argue that this change will inevitably lead to more fatal shootings, as it may embolden officers to use their weapons more freely, knowing that the legal system is now tilted in their favor.
Many civil society groups have expressed alarm that this law undermines the right to life and access to justice. They point out that in cases of police violence, the power imbalance between the state and the victims is already significant; this legislation exacerbates that imbalance by requiring victims to provide evidence to overcome the presumption of legality. Amnesty International and other observers have warned that this could slow down or obstruct investigations, potentially leaving families without recourse in cases of abuse.
There is also deep concern regarding the impact on public trust. In a country where police-related fatalities have been rising, many citizens view this law as a direct threat to civil liberties and a move toward authoritarian practices. The massive public response, evidenced by a petition with over 500,000 signatures, highlights a growing disconnect between the government's security policies and the public's demand for accountability and transparency in law enforcement.
Ultimately, critics argue that the law fails to address the root causes of police violence and instead prioritizes the protection of the institution over the protection of citizens. They fear that by lowering the threshold for the use of lethal force, France risks eroding the rule of law and failing to meet its international human rights obligations. The focus, they contend, should be on better training and de-escalation, rather than creating legal mechanisms that shield officers from the consequences of their actions.