NCJ Number
107562
Date Published
1986
Length
24 pages
Annotation
This survey of the principal sources of terrorism in contemporary France addresses ethnic terrorism, violence inspired by separatist movements within France, and then examines other terrorist groups that operate within the country.
Abstract
The longstanding policy of extending hospitality to political refugees, a multifaceted political culture, and its geographical location as the crossroads of Western Europe make France vulnerable to terrorism. The paper describes the historical roots and current operations of ethnic terrorists in Brittany and Corsica, as well as the government's response. Particular attention is given to the Front de Liberation de La Bretagne -- Armee Republicaine Bretonne and the Front de la Liberation Nationale de la Corse. Terrorist incidents that are connected with the politics of the Middle East and Turkey, but occur on French soil are discussed. The survey covers antisemitic terrorism originating from the far right of the French political spectrum and terrorism by the extreme left, notably the Action Directe. The author concludes that the terrorist problem is far from being overcome and that the government has refrained from taking severe measures because of widespread public distaste for anything reminiscent of state terrorism. Constitutional and judicial devices available to French governments for tackling threats to state security are examined.