France – Le Conseil d’État: Systemic Racial Profiling in Law Enforcement (2022)

Case: Action de Groupe en Cessation de Manquement Before Conseil d’État, Section du Contentieux

This case before the French Conseil d’État challenges systemic racial profiling by law enforcement, particularly identity checks disproportionately targeting individuals of African and Arab descent, violating French and international human rights obligations under ICERD. Reports highlight the pervasive nature of these practices, their disproportionate impact on young Black and Arab men, and the resulting erosion of trust with law enforcement. Special Rapporteur Achiume’s intervention frames racial profiling as systemic racial discrimination prohibited under international law, emphasizing France’s obligations to address systemic racism through explicit anti-profiling laws, accountability measures, effective remedies, and community engagement. The brief also calls for law enforcement reform, including transparency, participation, and training, offering specific recommendations to dismantle systemic discrimination and ensure compliance with international standards.