France to decide whether to extend state of emergency

In the wake of Paris attacks, duration as well as perimeter of 1955 state of emergency law are to be reconsidered by next French Council of Ministers. It is stated that this special system is currently limited to 12 days.

French President Francois Hollande's attempts to extend current state of emergency face opposition from Human Rights League . Will the use of this emergency law end on Feburary 26 as planned ? The League made very clear they have no intention to endanger French people security but rather point at abuse reports subsequent to these exeptional measures from police and security force during these last two months.

The state of emergency provides security and police forces with increased powers such as dissolving group thought to be a threat to public order, carrying out searches without warrants and copy data, and blocking any websites that "encourage" terrorism placing people under house arrest if they are considered a risk.

In its war against terrorism, French government now needs to strike a perfect balance between ensuring protection for its citizens and avoiding to interfere with their fundamental rights.

Paris terror attacks left 130 people dead in a series of bombing and shooting at the Bataclan concert hall, restaurants and bar terraces on last 13 November last year.

By: Yoann Frament