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๐Ÿ‡ซ๐Ÿ‡ท France /Crime & Justice

Government Will Not Publicize Results of Ministry Drug Screenings

From Le Figaro · () French

Translated from French, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News From a news agency New plan
  • The French government will not publicly release the results of its drug testing campaign for ministers and high-ranking officials.
  • Individuals testing positive will be removed from their positions, with past instances cited.
  • The campaign aims to promote exemplary conduct and state security, particularly for sensitive roles.

The French government has decided against making public the results of its recent drug testing initiative targeting ministers, cabinet members, and high-ranking civil servants. This decision comes despite the campaign being launched under the banner of "exemplarity" and state security.

While the names of any officials who test positive will not be disclosed, the government has stated that individuals found to be using drugs will be dismissed from their duties. The Prime Minister's office indicated that this approach is not a judicial process but a measure to ensure the integrity and security of sensitive positions that are inherently exposed.

We are not a court. We launched this screening campaign in the name of exemplarity and state security. These positions are exposed and naturally make the positions vulnerable. We do not intend to make public the names of agents who may be consumers.

โ€” Prime Minister's officeExplaining the government's decision not to release the names of officials who test positive for drugs.

This initiative, which began last week, is part of a broader effort by the executive branch to intensify the fight against drug trafficking. A directive from the Prime Minister on June 16 ordered ministers to conduct unannounced drug tests on their collaborators and themselves. The campaign also extends to prefects, ambassadors, and personnel with access to classified information.

The drug testing has reportedly caused unease within government administrations. Some officials have questioned the legality and the potential for fostering mistrust, while others have welcomed the initiative, emphasizing the need to address drug use across all societal strata.

we can no longer tolerate complacency regarding this consumption, which affects all environments.

โ€” Ministerial advisorCommenting on the drug testing initiative.
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Originally published by Le Figaro in French. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.