France proposes new law to curb unauthorized 'free parties'

France is preparing to implement stricter legislation against unauthorized outdoor gatherings, commonly known as 'free parties.' The National Assembly is set to begin reviewing a new governmental bill, referred to as the 'Ripost' bill, which aims to enhance public order and security. Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez has stated the bill intends to provide swift responses to issues that disrupt peace. The proposed measures target a range of activities, including the consumption of laughing gas and squatting, with a particular focus on the free party scene.

The free party movement, which originated in the UK in the late 1980s, advocates for an unrestricted, anti-capitalist approach to partying, often involving self-regulated events without entrance fees. This concept has faced increasing scrutiny, with Italy having already introduced laws in 2022 making the organization of unauthorized outdoor parties punishable by up to six years in jail and a €10,000 fine.

Proponents of free parties argue that the new French bill threatens the movement's core values. In early May, an estimated 20,000 to 40,000 people gathered near Bourges to protest the proposed restrictions. Subsequently, the French Senate passed several measures within the 'Ripost' bill. These include requiring gatherings of more than 250 people to be reported to authorities, a reduction from the previous threshold of 500. The Senate also voted to impose penalties of up to two years in prison and a €30,000 fine for organizing free parties. Furthermore, a new offense targeting participants could lead to up to six months in jail and a €7,500 fine.

Left-wing lawmakers have voiced opposition to the bill, with Mathilde Panot of La France Insoumise calling on the government to 'leave the young people of this country in peace.' The National Assembly will decide in the coming weeks whether to uphold the measures passed by the Senate. A support group for the movement, Tekno Anti Rep, stated that the 'free party scene is under threat' but emphasized that the culture is 'far from dead.'