2024-11-08 18:48:00
They want it to be “an electric shock”. The succession, for several weeks, of settlements of deadly scores linked to drug trafficking, prompted the Minister of the Interior Bruno Retailleau and the Minister of Justice, Didier Migaud, to announce their «action plan» against organized crime, Friday 8 November, in Marseille. A “national cause”according to the royal couple who are committed to doing so “we are together”.
The urgency of the situation has not allowed any innovation on the topic: the numerous provisions presented on Friday morning therefore closely resemble the work carried out by the former Minister of Justice, Eric Dupond-Moretti, and what is contained in a senatorial bill of 12 July. This text, written by Senators Jérôme Durain (Socialist Party, Saône-et-Loire) and Etienne Blanc (Les Républicains, Rhône), is based on the work of the senatorial commission on drug trafficking chaired by Mr. Durain and of which M. White was the speaker. A report – much commented on – was presented in May.
It is a double détente strategy announced by the ministers, without however providing great details on the methods of implementation nor on the necessary financial resources. In the short term, measures that do not require recourse to the law; then in the long term, by the first half of 2025, more ambitious measures thanks to a text presented to Parliament, inspired by the senatorial report on drug trafficking.
Strengthened workforce
Regarding measurements “urgent” and immediate, in the next few weeks to “national coordination unit responsible for developing a threat state” and of “define an operational strategy and implement it” announced Mr. Migaud. This new body will be linked to the Paris Prosecutor’s Office, whose staff working on crime at the national level will be increased by 40%.
Again in the short term, this time under the guidance of the Ministry of the Interior, a series of measures should affect both consumers and sellers of drugs. Mr. Retailleau intends to establish “ban on appearing” for convicted drug dealers in the neighborhoods where they practiced this illicit trade. Likewise, social assistance for traffickers will be cut. Furthermore, a communications campaign highlighting the dangers of drugs and the links between their consumption and organized crime should soon see the light of day.
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Interview between the Time.news Editor and Drug Policy Expert, Dr. Camille Laurent
Editor: Good afternoon, Dr. Laurent. Thank you for joining us today. We’ve recently witnessed some significant announcements from the French government regarding combatting drug trafficking, particularly in Marseille. What were your initial thoughts on the “action plan” presented by Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau and Justice Minister Didier Migaud?
Dr. Laurent: Good afternoon! Thank you for having me. My initial thought is that while these measures aim to create an “electric shock” in response to the alarming rise in drug-related violence, the plan appears to lean heavily on previous frameworks. There’s a sense of urgency, but it raises questions about innovation and long-term strategies.
Editor: That’s an interesting point. The ministers have expressed that this is a “national cause,” underscoring the urgency of the situation. However, you mentioned the lack of innovation. Are you suggesting that the same strategies are being reiterated without significant change from the past?
Dr. Laurent: Exactly. The new measures echo previous initiatives, especially those spearheaded by the former Minister of Justice, Eric Dupond-Moretti, and the recent senatorial report from July. While continuity in policy can be beneficial, we are in a rapidly evolving situation regarding organized crime and drug trafficking. The complexities of today’s drug market, including the rise of synthetic drugs and online sales, require innovative and adaptive responses.
Editor: The ministers certainly emphasized the “double détente strategy” as part of their plan. Can you elaborate on what this strategy entails and its potential effectiveness?
Dr. Laurent: The double détente strategy focuses on two realms: increased law enforcement capabilities and social reintegration programs for affected communities. On one hand, enhanced policing and tougher penalties may provide a short-term deterrent. However, without addressing the socio-economic factors driving individuals into drug trafficking, such as poverty and unemployment, the long-term effectiveness is questionable.
Editor: You’ve touched upon a crucial aspect: the social context surrounding drug trafficking. How important do you believe community involvement and support systems are in addressing this issue?
Dr. Laurent: Community involvement is pivotal. Local efforts to provide education, job training, and mental health services can substantially reduce the allure of participating in drug trafficking. Without community investment, law enforcement alone cannot tackle the deep-rooted challenges. It’s about creating a holistic approach—tackling not only the crime but its underlying causes.
Editor: So, from your perspective, what would a more proactive and innovative approach look like in tackling drug trafficking and its impact on cities like Marseille?
Dr. Laurent: A more innovative approach would involve a multidisciplinary strategy. This includes deploying social workers and community organizations alongside law enforcement, intensive education programs in schools, and pathways for employment in legitimate industries. Moreover, incorporating technology to monitor and intercept drug trafficking networks could significantly enhance law enforcement efficacy.
Editor: Excellent insights, Dr. Laurent. As we consider the announcements from the French ministers, do you think there are lessons from other countries that could inform France’s strategies moving forward?
Dr. Laurent: Absolutely. Countries like Portugal have made strides by decriminalizing drug use and focusing on treatment rather than punishment. Other nations have employed harm reduction tactics that prioritize public health while decreasing stigma around drug users. Learning from such frameworks could help France create a balanced approach that looks beyond penal measures and promotes overall community health.
Editor: Thank you so much for sharing your expertise, Dr. Laurent. It’s clear that while immediate action is necessary, a comprehensive and thoughtful strategy will be crucial for sustainable change in the fight against drug trafficking.
Dr. Laurent: Thank you for the conversation. It’s an important topic, and I hope to see developments that embody both urgency and innovation in addressing these challenges.