The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) and the Media Freedom Rapid Response (MFRR) have condemned fresh incidents of police violence against reporters in France. Since early September, at least six journalists have been injured while covering demonstrations against the 2026 national budget plan.
The most serious case occurred on 18 September in Lyon, where a France 2 cameraman was hospitalized after being struck by a projectile allegedly fired by police. He suffered burns and hearing damage. A week earlier, on 10 September in Montpellier, reporter Samuel Clauzier was assaulted, his equipment destroyed, and he was left with injuries to his neck. Four other journalists were attacked in Paris, facing tear gas, beatings, and physical aggression.
According to Mapping Media Freedom, the incidents fit into a broader pattern of recurring police violence during social movements in France. Concerns also grew after the Ministry of the Interior introduced the “National Urban Violence Scheme” (SNVU) in mid-2025, which initially excluded specific protections for journalists. Following public criticism, the ministry was forced to withdraw the controversial wording.
Journalist organizations are calling for an independent investigation into the attacks and demand clear guarantees of protection for media workers during demonstrations. With another day of mobilization scheduled for 2 October, they stress that the work of journalists is vital to safeguarding the public’s right to information.