Restrict access to social networks in case of new riots? This measure, evoked by Emmanuel Macron in front of nearly 300 mayors of communes victims of violence during the riots, has caused controversy. To the point that the government spokesman clarified the project on Wednesday, July 5, ensuring that he does not intend to proceed to a "generalized blackout" of platforms.

"It can be suspensions of features," said government spokesman Olivier Véran, referring to the tools available in situations such as the riots triggered by the death of young Nahel on June 27.

'Calls for the organisation of hatred'

"For example, you have geolocation functions, on some platforms, which allow young people to find themselves in a certain place, by showing scenes, how to set fire etc ... These are calls for the organization of hatred in the public space and there you have authority to be able to suspend," he said, reporting to the Council of Ministers.

According to the entourage of the head of state, Emmanuel Macron "has at no time said that he was considering cutting the networks in the direction of a generalized blackout". "It is about "being able to occasionally and temporarily suspend social networks," the source added.

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"We need to have a reflection on the use of these networks among the youngest, in families, at school, the prohibitions that must be put in place," said the head of state, according to remarks reported by the press and confirmed by the Elysee.

"We could see it (..) When things get out of hand for a while, you might say: maybe we're putting yourself in a position to regulate or cut them," he said. "It should not be done hot. I am glad that we did not have to do it," he added.

"OK Kim Jong-un"

The reactions were not long in coming. "Cut off social media? Like China, Iran, North Korea?", ironically the president of the group The Republicans (LR) in the National Assembly, Olivier Marleix, on Twitter deploring a "provocation of very bad taste".

"OK Kim Jong-un," exclaimed in the same vein the Insoumise Mathilde Panot, referring to the North Korean leader.

"It would be giving up the idea that democracy is stronger than the tools that are used against it. It would be a mistake," said Eric Bothorel, a member of parliament for the Renaissance presidential party.

The Minister in charge of Digital Transition, Jean-Noël Barrot, proposed, Tuesday evening, in the Senate, the establishment of a working group on the measures to be taken in case of riots, which could be integrated into the bill to "secure" the Internet.

With AFP

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