CGT Leader Sophie Binet Indicted for Public Insult Over CEOs Remark

Sophie Binet, general secretary of the French labor union CGT, has been indicted for “public insult” following her controversial statement in January comparing CEOs to "rats leaving the ship." The comment was made during a radio interview in response to Bernard Arnault, CEO of LVMH, who warned that proposed government tax measures could encourage companies to relocate abroad. Binet’s remarks sparked a complaint from Ethic, an employer group, which argued that her words were damaging to the reputation of business leaders. Another business union linked to far-right billionaire Pierre-Edouard Stérin also filed a complaint.

Binet defended her statement, emphasizing that her role as a union leader necessitates addressing economic inequalities and job security. She maintained that the comment reflects a common sentiment and is crucial for open public discourse on corporate responsibilities toward employment and subcontractors in France.

In France, the indictment for public insult is generally procedural once a complaint is filed, indicating a likely continuation of legal proceedings. Binet expressed shock at the indictment but stressed the importance of confronting issues related to wealth disparities and corporate conduct openly.

This case highlights ongoing tensions in France between labor unions and business interests, particularly amid debates over taxation and economic policies affecting multinational firms.