French press review 13 November 2009

Article published on the 2009-11-13 Latest update 2009-11-13 08:03 TU

Le Monde’s main headline is about the spread of closed circuit television cameras (CCTV) throughout French cities.

Video surveillance has indeed been key to the French government’s policy on security, and many associations have been joining forces to denounce a practice which they claim goes against basic liberties, and which they feel has no real positive effect.

The paper suggests that about 60,000 cameras will be installed throughout France by 2011, triple the current 20,000. The budget for this: 37 million euros.

French Prime Minister François Fillon has referred to the programme as “video protection”.

Le Monde says the debate over the cameras is far from being a simple case of left/right, especially when it comes to how useful they are. According to a report, when there is less than one camera per 2,000 residents, crime - and especially physical attacks - increases.

But a police inspector has argued that although it is undeniable that the presence of CCTV helps when it comes to finding criminals, generally they don't really help diminish crime.

Le Monde also highlights that video surveillance is potentially a juicy business for private entrepreneurs, and it reminds us that they still haven't helped catch one of France's most wanted runaway criminals, Jean Pierre Treiber, who's been on the run since 8 September.

Other headlines in Le Monde include the never-ending debate over burqas, with an article on how important arguments will stop the prohibition women wearing burqas in public, as it would go against fundamental rights.

The paper has also picked up a story about France being accused of disengaging itself from the fight against landmines. This comes on the eve of a Handicap International summit.

Apparently since the programme to destroy the production of landmines has ended, France has not been as committed as it should be, and hasn't been so forthcoming in financing the fight against remaining mines around the world.

De-mining was estimated to cost 61 millions euros in 2008.