Lyon 2 University Professor Sparks Outrage with Controversial 'Genociders to Boycott' List

A significant controversy has erupted at Lyon 2 University following history professor Julien Théry's publication of a list labeling 20 public figures as "genociders to boycott in all circumstances." The list, shared within a Facebook group, included well-known personalities such as Yvan Attal, Arthur Essebag, and Bernard-Henri Lévy. This publication was a response to a post by Sophie Tregan, who criticized these individuals for urging President Emmanuel Macron not to recognize a Palestinian state without preconditions.

The list has provoked widespread condemnation. The Ligue contre le racisme et l'antisémitisme (Licra) denounced Théry's action as an "ignominious attitude," comparing it to tactics used during the Occupation and calling for legal support for those targeted. Laurent Wauquiez, a prominent French political figure, also voiced outrage, perceiving the incident as symptomatic of anti-Semitism within left-wing university circles. He referenced previous related events, including the intimidation of geographer Fabrice Balanche by masked individuals at Lyon 2 earlier this year.

In response to the backlash, Julien Théry defended his post publicly on Facebook, describing himself as a victim of a "McCarthyite offensive" threatening academic freedom. Meanwhile, Lyon 2 University's administration condemned Théry's publication, describing his actions as shocking and misaligned with the institution's values. The administration stated it would determine appropriate measures against the professor.

This episode adds to earlier controversies involving Lyon 2 University, raising broader concerns about rising anti-Semitism and academic conduct. With mounting public and political pressure, the situation underscores ongoing tensions in French academia over freedom of expression versus respect and non-discrimination.