Paris, France – French President Emmanuel Macron announced stricter penalties for drug use, raising the fine to €500. This move aims to curb the spread of drug trafficking and the accompanying security and social unrest in French cities and neighborhoods.
In a post published Tuesday on the X platform, Macron said that France had reached its “limited limit” with the scourge of drug trafficking. He emphasized, “We are fed up with drug trafficking that is destroying our cities and neighborhoods. We have changed our approach and are already starting to take action and make a real difference.” He added that the authorities “have begun implementing a more rigorous approach to combat the phenomenon on the ground.”
This move is part of a broader security policy adopted by the French government, based on swift and effective deterrence. This is achieved by imposing immediate fines on drug users instead of relying solely on traditional measures, which have been described as slow or ineffective. The government believes that increasing financial penalties will reduce the demand for drugs and, consequently, diminish the influence of trafficking networks.
Under the new plan, heavier fines will be imposed for minor drug use offenses, while harsher penalties will remain in place for trafficking and distribution, including prison sentences and larger fines. Authorities also plan to increase security presence in affected neighborhoods and intensify campaigns against organized criminal networks.
The move sparked mixed reactions in political and social circles. Supporters welcomed it as a firm message against organized crime, while critics warned that focusing on fines could burden vulnerable groups without addressing the underlying social and health causes of addiction.
The French government emphasizes that stricter penalties are accompanied by preventative and rehabilitative programs. These programs include awareness campaigns and healthcare support, aiming to strike a balance between security measures and social intervention. Paris describes this as a long and crucial battle to protect cities and neighborhoods from the devastating effects of drugs.
