France’s protests over a police killing, briefly explained

2023年6月29日、フランス・パリ西郊外の町ナンテールで人々が抗議活動を行った。フランスでは、警察がフランス系アルジェリア系の17歳のネヘル・Mさんを暴行中に殺害したことを受け、広範な抗議活動が起きている。 交通停止。 この事件は、人種差別と警察の過剰な武力に関する全国的な議論を引き起こした。 フランス政府は暴動鎮圧に4万人の警察官を動員し、マクロン大統領は非常事態宣言の発令を検討している。 この殺害は、警察の暴力と人種的不平等の広範な傾向を示すものとみられている。 フランスにおける警察の残虐行為の問題は十分に文書化されており、警察における人種差別は重大な問題となっている。 改革の試みは警察組合の反対に直面しているが、ネヘルさんの殺害はフランスの警察改革の転換点となる可能性がある。(English) People protested in Nanterre, a town on the western outskirts of Paris, France, on June 29, 2023. France is experiencing widespread protests following the police killing of a 17-year-old of French-Algerian descent, Nahel M., during a traffic stop. The incident has ignited a national debate on racism and excessive force in policing. The French government has mobilized 40,000 officers to quell the unrest, and President Macron is considering declaring a state of emergency. The killing is seen as symptomatic of broader trends in police violence and racial inequality. France's problem with police brutality is well-documented, with racial discrimination in policing being a significant issue. Attempts at reform have faced opposition from police unions, but Nahel's killing could potentially mark a turning point for police reform in France.

France's protests over a police killing briefly explained

France finds itself at the centre of the global reckoning over police violence.

//Summary - Level-B2//

Protests erupted in France following the police killing of a 17-year-old in a Paris suburb. The demonstrations, fueled by anger over racism and excessive force in policing, have turned violent in multiple cities. The French government deployed thousands of officers to control the unrest, while President Macron considered declaring a state of emergency. The incident reflects long-standing issues of police brutality in France, including racial discrimination and the use of excessive force. Despite previous resistance to reform, the killing has renewed calls for meaningful changes in policing.

1)

Widespread protests continued for a third day across France after police killed a 17-year-old in a Paris suburb when he refused to comply with a traffic stop, prompting a national reckoning over racism and excessive force in policing.

2)

The victim, who was of French-Algerian descent, has been identified by police as Nahel M. His death has sparked protests in Marseille, Lyon, Pau, Toulouse, Lille, Bordeaux, Roubaix and Nanterre, the Paris suburb where Nahel was reportedly from. They have turned violent, with demonstrators throwing stones, bottles and fireworks at police and setting fire to rubbish bins, vehicles and buildings, including a bank in Nanterre. Police have used tear gas to disperse the crowds, and some French municipalities have taken steps to restrict the use of fireworks and ban protests.

3)

The French government mobilised 40,000 officers on Thursday night to quell the unrest, which shows no sign of abating. Nearly 900 people were arrested overnight, following 180 arrests the night before.

French President Emmanuel Macron held a crisis meeting for the second day running on Friday and is reportedly considering all options to stop the violence - including declaring a state of emergency. He told the conference that the destruction is still being tallied, but 492 buildings have been damaged, and 3,880 fires started.

4)

"It is an explosion of general anger" directed not only at police repression but also at economic and racial inequality, said Mathieu Rigouste, a social science researcher and author of La Domination Policière. This book examines how French policing practices are rooted in colonialism.

5)

Many in France see Nahel's killing as a reflection of racism against the country's Arab and black communities, as it's not the first time something like this has happened. In 2020, four police officers beat a black music producer in his studio in a viral video, just as Macron was considering legislation that would impose new restrictions on posting videos of police online. And in 2005, teenagers Zyed Benna and Bouna Traoré - of Tunisian and Mauritanian origin, respectively - died after fleeing a police identity check and running into an electricity substation, where they were accidentally electrocuted.

6)

"There is a kind of immediate feeling among the public that this is symptomatic of more global trends in police violence," said Jacques de Maillard, a political science professor at the University of Versailles-Saint-Quentin who studies comparative policing. These trends include, as the UN noted in 2021, "a steady increase in the use of excessive force, police brutality and other forms of cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment, as well as arbitrary detention" around the world - and often reflect factors such as racial tensions.

7)

The circumstances of Nahel's killing seem to mirror many fatal traffic stops in the US and elsewhere. The prosecutor in the case said police tried to stop the vehicle because of erratic driving and the driver's youth. But they told Nahel refused to stop, ran a red light, committed other traffic violations and endangered pedestrians.

8)

France's longstanding problem with police brutality

France is considered one of the worst offenders in Europe regarding police brutality.

After Macron pushed through controversial reforms to raise the retirement age earlier this year, French police used tear gas, truncheons, stun grenades and rubber bullets - banned in most other European countries - to disperse the mass protests that broke out. This prompted the UN Human Rights Council in May to criticise France's use of excessive force in law enforcement. Council members also urged France to address more general "racial profiling by security forces".

9)

The existence of racial discrimination in French policing is also well documented. In a 2016 survey of more than 5,000 people, the French government's human rights watchdog found that men and boys perceived as black or Arab were 20 times more likely to be stopped by the police than others.

10)

Civil society organisations have filed a class action lawsuit against ethnic profiling in policing in France, and the French government was ordered to pay a fine in a case brought by three teenagers of colour who were stopped and searched by police while returning from a school trip in 2021. Aside from Nahel's encounter with the police, many other law enforcement incidents have targeted people in various suburban areas - including in Beaumont-sur-Oise, where Adama Traoré, a black man, died in 2016 due to police detention methods.

"Despite international criticism and local struggles, the French state has continuously strengthened its police, prisons and borders over the last 30 years (multiplying weapons, laws and units specialised in cruelty), as well as judicial impunity," Rigouste said.

11)

Attempts at reform have met with fierce opposition from French police unions. In response to French solidarity protests over the killing of George Floyd in 2020, Macron's government considered the possibility of disciplining officers guilty of 'proven suspicion of racism' and banning chokeholds. The first of these provisions was watered down, and the second was abandoned under pressure from police unions.

12)

In the aftermath of Nahel's killing, Macron again seemed careful not to antagonise the police unions in public statements. While calling the killing inexcusable, he has also criticised the violent reaction of protesters and defended the police: "Our police and gendarmes are committed to protecting us and serving the Republic. I thank them every day. They do so within an ethical framework that must be respected," he tweeted on Wednesday.

Still, de Maillard said Nahel's killing could mark a turning point in getting some measure of real police reform.

"The calls for reform have not been heard - until now," he said.

Add info No1)

//Postscript//

Why can't we share the wealth?

We may live satisfactorily with enough food, clothing, shelter, and a little hope and love.

But some rich people want to earn more, save money, and live more luxuriously.

Are they happy?

Those with money need to think about what makes them happy, and those suffering now need to think about what they need to do to create a better future.

We have experienced war, discrimination, poverty, and inequality throughout history.

We should be seeing our landing point soon.

Those who have money create happiness by sharing wealth and wisdom, and those who do not buy from them their daily necessities and design education and jobs.

We don't need that much wealth.

They need help both.

We can all create happiness by respecting, caring for, and helping each other.

Add info No2) 

Q1. Why can't we share the wealth?

A1. The question of sharing wealth involves complex economic and social factors. In general, the distribution of wealth is influenced by various factors such as financial systems, government policies, taxation, income inequality, and societal norms. There are several reasons why it may be challenging to achieve a perfect or equal distribution of wealth:

1. Economic systems: Different economic systems, such as capitalism or socialism, have varying approaches to wealth distribution. Capitalist systems prioritize individual ownership and free markets, which can lead to wealth concentration. Socialistic systems aim for equal distribution through state intervention and redistribution.

2. Income inequality: Income inequality, where a small percentage of the population holds a significant portion of wealth, can hinder wealth sharing. Factors such as wage disparities, access to education, employment opportunities, and social mobility can contribute to income inequality.

3. Power dynamics: Wealth often translates into power, and those who possess it may have the means to influence policies and maintain their advantage. This can create barriers to wealth redistribution as those in power may resist changes resulting in a more equal distribution.

4. Social and cultural factors: Societal values, attitudes, and cultural norms can influence wealth distribution. In some cases, a culture of individualism and self-reliance may discourage wealth sharing, while in others, there may be a stronger emphasis on social welfare and equality.

5. Economic growth and productivity: Sharing wealth requires a stable and growing economy. Economic growth, productivity, and wealth creation are essential factors in generating resources that can be distributed. Sharing wealth becomes more challenging if the economy is stagnant or lacks sufficient resources.

It's important to note that different societies and individuals have varying perspectives on wealth distribution. Some argue for more equitable distribution to address social inequalities, while others emphasize individual rights and rewards for hard work and innovation. Achieving a balance between personal prosperity and societal well-being is a complex task that requires a comprehensive understanding of economic, political, and social factors.

Q2. What should we do to create a system to create superstars among minority people?

For example, there are already many athletes from Africa and Asia, but it seems that no presidents of large companies are overwhelmingly earning.

A2. Promoting equal opportunities and addressing systemic barriers can help create a system that allows individuals from minority backgrounds to excel and become successful in various fields, including business. Here are some considerations for fostering a more inclusive environment:

1. Education and Skill Development: Ensure access to quality education and skill development programs for minority communities. Addressing educational disparities can provide a foundation for individuals to pursue successful careers in any field.

2. Mentorship and Networking: Establish mentorship programs that connect aspiring individuals from minority backgrounds with successful role models in their desired fields. Encourage networking opportunities that facilitate connections and support from established professionals.

3. Diversity and Inclusion Policies: Encourage organizations to implement diversity and inclusion policies that promote equal opportunities for all individuals, regardless of their background. This can include diverse hiring practices, inclusive workplace environments, and equitable promotion and advancement opportunities.

4. Access to Capital and Resources: Facilitate access to capital, loans, and resources for minority entrepreneurs and business owners. Support initiatives that provide financial assistance, training, and mentorship for starting and growing businesses.

5. It addresses Bias and Stereotypes: Combat stereotypes and biases that limit opportunities for minority individuals. Promote awareness and education to challenge prejudiced assumptions and create a more inclusive society.

6. Representation and Visibility: Promote diverse representation in media, leadership, and decision-making roles. Encouraging positive portrayals and celebrating the achievements of minority individuals can inspire others and challenge existing barriers.

7. Government Support and Policies: Advocate for policies supporting minority-owned businesses, funding entrepreneurship programs, and addressing systemic inequalities. Governments can play a crucial role in creating an enabling environment for minority individuals to succeed.

8. Cultural Sensitivity and Awareness: Foster cultural sensitivity and awareness within organizations and society. Understanding and appreciating diverse cultures can help break down barriers and promote collaboration.

Creating a system that allows individuals from minority backgrounds to become successful superstars requires a comprehensive approach involving education, mentorship, policy changes, and cultural shifts. By addressing systemic barriers and promoting equal opportunities, we can work towards a more inclusive society that allows talent to flourish regardless of an individual's background.

France's protests over a police killing briefly explained

France finds itself at the centre of the global reckoning over police violence.

https://www.vox.com/world-politics/2023/6/29/23778832/france-protests-nahel-police-killing

Anti-discrimination Demonstrations and Massive Riots in Paris: Why was the French version of BLM(Black Lives Matter) born?

https://www.newsweekjapan.jp/mutsuji/2023/07/blm-1.php

[Unprecedented] A French person explains the emergency in France in an easy-to-understand manner

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FlFt84wFUQQ

Wind River - film 2017

https://www.imdb.com/title/tt5362988/

A wildlife officer, haunted by a tragedy that happened because of him, teams up with an FBI agent to solve a murder of a young woman on a Wyoming Native American reservation and hopes to get redemption from his past regrets.

Add info No3) 

A week after the riots in France, social divisions are highlighted... Young immigrants erupt with dissatisfaction

https://www.yomiuri.co.jp/world/20230704-OYT1T50033/?from=smtnews

Second and third-generation immigrants, intense hostility

At the centre of the riots were second and third-generation immigrants, born and raised in the suburbs of Paris and other large cities, whose ancestors were immigrants. There is no end to the number of young people who commit crimes because of financial difficulties and their inability to integrate into French society without going on to higher education.

According to the 30 June edition of the French newspaper Le Monde, the background to the riots was that many young immigrants complained that they were discriminated against because they were immigrants when the police asked them to show their papers. The experience will leave a lasting impression," he said.

The international community has also criticised the police response. "It is time for the French government to address racism within the police force," the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights said in a statement. In response, the French government has argued that the allegations are entirely unfounded.

President Macron is trying to calm the waters following the intensified pension reform protests this spring. This is because the series of riots seems to be shaking the idea of a French society that does not discriminate against immigrants. Macron plans to meet the speakers of both houses of parliament on the 3rd and the mayor of the town where the riot occurred on the 4th, but the divisions in French society are deep-rooted and difficult to heal.

French immigrants, what kind of life ... low-income trend with many unskilled workers

Q1: What is French immigration?

A1. After the Second World War, workers came mainly from former colonies such as the African continent as a labour force for reconstruction and economic revitalisation. They live in collective housing on the outskirts of large cities, often in unskilled jobs, and tend to have low incomes.

Q2: What percentage of the population are immigrants and second and third-generation?

A2. France has a philosophy of non-discrimination between citizens based on race or religion, so no precise statistics classify the immigrant population. However, according to the results of a survey published last year by the French National Institute for Statistics and Economic Studies, around 30% of the population under the age of 60 is thought to be of immigrant origin.

Q3: In 2005, there was also an uprising centred on young immigrants.

A3. At this time, two young immigrants being chased by police officers in the suburbs of Paris were electrocuted to death at a substation where they had fled. The French government devised financial support measures targeting poor areas, and the situation ended.

Add info No4) 

//New words//

1. Suburb: A residential or mixed-use area, either existing as part of a city or urban area or as a separate residential community within commuting distance of a town.

Example: "She lives in a quiet suburb just outside the city."

2. Comply: To act by a wish or command.

Example: "The company failed to comply with the regulations."

3. Reckoning: The action or process of calculating or estimating something, a person's view, opinion, or judgment.

Example: "By my reckoning, we should arrive by noon."

4. French-Algerian descent: Refers to a person with ancestral roots from France and Algeria.

Example: "The author, of French-Algerian descent, explores her dual heritage in her writings."

5. Marseille, Lyon, Pau, Toulouse, Lille, Bordeaux, Roubaix, and Nanterre: These are all cities in France.

Example: "She embarked on a tour of France, visiting cities like Marseille, Lyon, and Bordeaux."

6. Disperse: Distribute or spread over a wide area.

Example: "The crowd began to disperse after the concert."

7. Municipalities: A city or town with corporate status and local government.

Example: "The municipalities are responsible for maintaining local parks."

8. Restrict: Limit it; keep it under control.

Example: "The new law will restrict smoking in public areas."

9. Mobilised: Make (something) movable or capable of movement; prepare and organise for active service.

Example: "The government mobilised the army in response to the crisis."

10. Quell: Put an end to (a rebellion or other disorder), typically using force.

Example: "The police were called to quell the disturbance."

11. Abating: Become less intense or widespread.

Example: "The storm shows no sign of abating."

12. French President Emmanuel Macron: Emmanuel Macron is a French politician who has been serving as the president of France since May 2017.

Example: "French President Emmanuel Macron announced new measures to combat climate change."

13. Declaring a state of emergency: A national danger or disaster in which a government suspends routine constitutional procedures to regain control.

Example: "The governor responded to the hurricane by declaring a state of emergency."

14. Tallied: Counted or recorded.

Example: "The votes were tallied, and the winner was announced."

15. Oppression: Prolonged, cruel or unjust treatment or control.

Example: "They fought against oppression and for their rights."

16. Inequities: Lack of fairness or justice.

Example: "The inequities in the education system are causing concern."

17. Colonialism: The policy or practice of acquiring full or partial political control over another country, occupying it with settlers, and exploiting it economically.

Example: "The effects of colonialism can still be seen in many parts of the world."

18. Viral video: A video that becomes popular through viral Internet sharing, typically through video-sharing websites, social media and email.

Example: "His dance moves in the viral video were hilarious."

19. Legislation: Laws considered collectively.

Example: "The government passed new legislation to protect the environment."

20. Impose= Force (something unwelcome or unfamiliar) to be accepted or put in place.

Example: "The government imposed new taxes on the citizens."

21. Restriction: A limiting condition or measure.

Example: "The restriction on plastic bag use has helped reduce pollution."

22. Tunisian and Mauritanian origins: Refers to a person with ancestral roots from both Tunisia and Mauritania.

Example: "The artist, of Tunisian and Mauritanian origins, incorporates elements of both cultures in his work."

23. Fleeing: Running away from a place or situation of danger.

Example: "The family was fleeing from the war-torn region."

24. Inspection: The act of examining or reviewing.

Example: "The health inspection found the restaurant in excellent condition."

25. Substation: A part of an electrical generation, transmission, and distribution system where voltage is transformed from high to low or the reverse.

Example: "The power outage was due to a problem at the substation."

26. Immediate: Occurring or done at once; instant.

Example: "The doctor called for immediate assistance."

27. Symptomatic: Serving as a symptom or sign, especially of something undesirable.

Example: "His cough was symptomatic of a serious underlying condition."

28. Comparative: Perceived by an estimate of the difference or resemblance concerning another quantity or benchmark.

Example: "In a comparative study of the two countries, researchers found significant differences in health outcomes."

29. Excessive force: More physical force than is reasonably necessary to control a situation.

Example: "The officer was accused of using excessive force during the arrest."

30. Police brutality: The use of excessive and/or unnecessary force by police when dealing with civilians.

Example: "An incident of police brutality sparked the protest."

31. Degrading: Causing a loss of self-respect; humiliating. Example: "The prisoners were kept in degrading conditions."

32. Arbitrary detention: The detaining or imprisoning of someone without legal justification.

Example: "Human rights organisations have condemned the arbitrary detention of journalists."

33. Circumstances: The conditions or facts attending an event and having some bearing on it.

Example: "Given the circumstances, it was the best decision we could make."

34. Prosecutor: A legal prosecution representative in countries with either the common law adversarial system or the civil law inquisitorial system.

Example: "The prosecutor presented compelling evidence in court."

35. Erratic: Not even or regular in pattern or movement; unpredictable.

Example: "His erratic behaviour was a cause for concern."

36. Endangered pedestrians: Refers to situations where the actions of a person or vehicle pose a risk to the safety of pedestrians.

Example: "The speeding car endangered pedestrians crossing the street."

37. Pursued: Followed or chased (someone or something).

Example: "The police pursued the suspect through the city."

38. Formal investigation for voluntary homicide: A severe and official inquiry into a case where someone has intentionally caused the death of another person.

Example: "The suspect is under formal investigation for voluntary homicide."

39. Equivalent: Equal in value, amount, function, meaning, etc. Example: "One kilometre is equivalent to 0.621371 miles."

40. France's longstanding police brutality problem refers to the ongoing issue of excessive force and violence used by law enforcement in France.

Example: "Recent protests have brought attention to France's longstanding police brutality problem."

41. Rammed: Struck with great force.

Example: "The car rammed into the wall."

42. Controversial reforms: Changes or improvements that matter of public dispute or debate.

Example: "The government's controversial reforms to the healthcare system sparked protests."

43. Tear gas and batons: Weapons are often used by police for crowd control.

Example: "The police used tear gas and batons to disperse the crowd."

44. Stun grenades and rubber bullets: Non-lethal weapons used by police to control or disperse crowds.

Example: "The police fired stun grenades and rubber bullets at the protesters."

45. Disperse: Distribute or spread over a wide area.

Example: "The crowd began to disperse after the concert."

46. Council: An advisory, deliberative, or legislative body of people formally constituted and meeting regularly.

Example: "The city council meets monthly to discuss local issues."

47. Urged: Recommended or strongly advised.

Example: "The doctor urged him to get regular exercise."

48. Racial profiling by security forces: The discriminatory practice by law enforcement officials of targeting individuals for suspicion of crime based on the individual's race or ethnicity.

Example: "The report highlighted racial profiling by security forces."

49. Well-documented: Having a lot of written evidence to prove, support, or explain it.

Example: "The benefits of a healthy diet are well-documented."

50. Perceived: Become aware or conscious of (something); come to realise or understand.

Example: "She perceived a change in his attitude."

51. Ethnic: Relating to a population subgroup (within a more significant or dominant national or cultural group) with a common national or cultural tradition.

Example: "The city is known for its rich ethnic diversity."

52. Encounter: Unexpectedly experienced or faced with (something complicated or hostile).

Example: "We have encountered numerous obstacles during the project."

53. Reinforced: Strengthened or supported, especially with additional material.

Example: "The bridge was reinforced with steel beams."

54. Impunity: Exemption from punishment or freedom from the harmful consequences of an action.

Example: "The dictator ruled with impunity."

55. Attempts: Efforts to achieve or complete a difficult task or action. Example: "Despite several attempts, he could not climb the mountain."

56. Opposition: Resistance or dissent, expressed in action or argument. Example: "There was strong opposition to the new policy."

57. Weighed: Assessed or evaluated something. Example: "She weighed the pros and cons before deciding."

58. Disciplining is training people to obey rules or a code of behaviour.

Example: "The company is very strict about disciplining employees who break the rules."

59. Proven suspicions of racism: Confirmed or established instances or beliefs of racial prejudice or discrimination.

Example: "The officer was dismissed following proven suspicions of racism."

60. Chokehold: A restraining hold in which one person encircles the neck of another in a tight grip, often causing unconsciousness. Example: "The use of chokeholds by police has been controversial."

61. Provisions: The action of providing or supplying something for use.

Example: "The contract includes a provision for regular inspections."

62. Abandoned: Ceased to support or look after; deserted.

Example: "The mother abandoned her young child."

63. Pressure: Persuasion, influence, or intimidation to make someone do something.

Example: "The union pressures the management to raise salaries."

64. Inexcusable: Too harmful to be justified or tolerated.

Example: "His behaviour was inexcusable."

65. Gendarmes: Armed police officers in France, like soldiers, usually perform policing duties among civilian populations.

Example: "The gendarmes were called in to restore order after the riot."

66. Enacted: Made (a bill or other proposal) law.

Example: "The government enacted a tax reform."

67. Controversial reforms: Changes or improvements that matter of public dispute or debate.

Example: "The government's controversial reforms to the healthcare system sparked protests."