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Archived edition · August 15, 2026 Today's news →

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Social Media Ban Overturned; Far-Right Gains Ground in Public Service

In a significant legal development, France's Constitutional Council has overturned a ban on social media for minors under 15, ruling it an undue infringement on freedom of expression and communication. This decision marks a reversal of a recent legislative effort concerning online access for young people.

Politically, the far-right Rassemblement National party is reportedly gaining substantial ground within the French public service, attracting civil servants from state, local, and hospital sectors. This trend emerges alongside a new investigation revealing a Republican Guard sergeant major expressing racist theories without facing repercussions, tarnishing the institution's image.

Meanwhile, wildfires have reignited in the Landes region, leading to new evacuations and the deployment of an Australian mega-helicopter to combat the blazes. This comes as an investigation highlights the government's failure to establish a promised local air base for firefighting planes in the Southwest. The ongoing extreme heat is also accelerating the grape harvest, raising concerns about reduced yields.

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Far-Right Gains Traction in Public Service Amidst Republican Guard Scandal

The far-right Rassemblement National party is reportedly gaining significant support among French civil servants across various sectors. This political shift coincides with an investigation revealing a sergeant major in the elite Republican Guard has been expressing racist theories without facing repercussions, raising concerns about institutional integrity.

Wildfires Reignite in Landes; State Fails to Deliver Promised Firefighting Base

Wildfires have reignited in the Landes region, leading to new evacuations and the deployment of an Australian mega-helicopter to bolster firefighting efforts. This critical situation is underscored by a new investigation revealing the French government's failure to establish a promised local air base for firefighting planes in the Southwest, despite pledges made after previous major blazes.

Extreme Heat Accelerates Grape Harvest, Threatening Yields

The ongoing extreme heatwave is significantly accelerating the grape harvest, a phenomenon described as unprecedented by experienced viticulturists. This early harvest raises concerns about potentially reduced yields for the season.

Patrick Bruel's Judicial Supervision Eased

Less than two months after being indicted for rape, singer Patrick Bruel has seen his judicial restrictions eased, now permitted to leave the country. The Nanterre prosecutor's office is reportedly appealing this decision.

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