French Culture Minister seeks stronger sanctions for obstructing performances after Barbara Butch attack

Published Jul 31, 10:58 PM UTC

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French Culture Minister Catherine Pégard announced on July 31, 2026, that she is sending two circulars to prefects and public prosecutors to strengthen enforcement of sanctions against the offense of obstructing artistic expression. The move follows the violent interruption of DJ Barbara Butch's concert in Grenoble on July 18 by pro-Palestinian activists, who threw glass bottles and projectiles at the stage. Pégard also intends to strengthen the 2016 law on freedom of creation (LCAP) through an interministerial plan. The circulars, co-signed by the Interior and Justice ministers, aim to reaffirm the rule of law against censorship. The activists targeted Butch for her participation in an event at the French ambassador's residence in Israel and her support for an anti-Semitism bill. The municipality and Butch have filed complaints.

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Source

Politique : Toute l’actualité sur Le Monde.fr.Western

Original headline: Après l’affaire Barbara Butch, la ministre de la culture veut renforcer les sanctions contre le délit d’entrave à un spectacle

Original language: FR

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Pro-Palestinian activists disrupt DJ Barbara Butch concert in Grenoble

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