Latest update: 15/07/2010 

- Africa - defence - France - human rights - military


Controversy on the Champs Elysées

No Flash warning
To take advantage of all the features on FRANCE24.COM, please click here to download the latest version of Flash Player.

In France, this year's Bastille Day celebrations are marred by controversy: there are even claims France is selling out its democratic ideals. On July 14th, soldiers from thirteen African countries are participating in the traditional annual military parade, in order to commemorate their independence 50 years ago. But this has sparked complaints that France is overlooking their poor record when it comes to democracy and human rights.

FOCUS
By Kate WILLIAMS / Sylvain ROUSSEAU
The 'anti-Merah' movement in the south of France
19/03/2013 - FRANCE

The 'anti-Merah' movement in the south of France

It's been one year since French-born extremist Mohamed Merah launched his attacks in the south of France, which left 7 dead, including 3 Jewish children. The mother of soldier Imad Ibn Ziaten, one of his victims, has since launched a nationwide campaign to get parents more involved with their children, to stop them from being radicalised and growing up to become homegrown fanatics. Last week, three French jihadists were arrested on suspicion of conspiring to commit terrorist acts.
Pondicherry, the French outpost in India
18/03/2013 - INDIA

Pondicherry, the French outpost in India

On Wednesday, the French language will be fêted worldwide with the International Day of "Francophonie". While French is spoken in a number of former colonies in Africa, it's also spoken in the town of Pondicherry, India. While the number of speakers there are increasingly outnumbered by those speaking the local Tamil tongue, there is still a strong French tradition in the town - even though many of its residents have never set foot on French soil.
Electoral law reform could see religion deciding results
18/03/2013 - LEBANON

Electoral law reform could see religion deciding results

Lebanese parliamentary elections should take place this June. With tensions running high in the region, not least with the ongoing situation in neighbouring Syria, the balance of power in Lebanon is in the spotlight. A proposed electoral law has attracted controversy, as it calls for citizens to vote for the candidate who belongs to their own sect. Critics say it threatens the fragile equilibrium that has existed between the country's various sects for years.
Obama warns Iran is approaching nuclear capability
15/03/2013 - IRAN - USA

Obama warns Iran is approaching nuclear capability

US President Barack Obama has warned that Iran could have a nuclear weapon in around a year's time. Speaking to Israeli television just a few days before his first visit to the Jewish state, Obama reiterated that Washington wants to continue down the diplomatic route for the time being, even though Israel is pushing for a pre-emptive strike. However, the US president did acknowledge that all possibilities remain on the table.
(1) comment
The Disunited Kingdom: does the UK really want to quit Europe?
15/03/2013 - UNITED KINGDOM

The Disunited Kingdom: does the UK really want to quit Europe?

Britain's debate on whether to stay in the EU is being driven by "corrosive English nationalism". Not the words of a Brussels spokesman, but a senior politician in charge of Wales. The call for a referendum on the UK's future in Europe is already causing a divide, with many in Scotland and Wales concerned that leaving the EU could cause untold damage to their economies. So, with Wales playing England on the rugby pitch this weekend, can they make their voices heard by their far larger neighbour?

React to the article
Comment this article typing your message in the above text zone. Please note that this is limited to 1500 characters or less.
(1) Reaction

Lyhwaku

by Lyhwaku Kuvialeka - 17/07/2010 - 11:18

Africans are sick from the heart after the Europeans have destroyed their cultures, accept neo-colonialism. So it will be difficult to develop Africa ....!

Read more
Close