Robert Badinter's Panthéonization Sparks Political Debate and Criticism

Robert Badinter, former Minister of Justice and prominent abolitionist of the death penalty, was officially inducted into the Panthéon in Paris on October 9, 2025. The ceremony, organized by a team including Stéphanie Antoine and others, honors Badinter's significant contributions to French law and justice. However, the event was marked by political controversy, notably from Éric Zemmour, leader of the far-right Reconquête party. Zemmour harshly criticized the tribute, asserting that "the country is not grateful" to Badinter for abolishing the death penalty. He accused Badinter of "emptying the prisons" and allowing leftist ideologies to infiltrate the justice system through the Syndicat de la magistrature. Zemmour also condemned the cowardly vandalism of Badinter's grave at Bagneux cemetery and labeled the ceremony presided over by President Emmanuel Macron as an example of "diluted humanism" turning into global humanitarianism.

This panthéonization occurs amid a politically charged atmosphere in France, as President Macron deals with the aftermath of government dissolution and ongoing political turmoil ahead of the 2024 Summer Olympics. Macron is conducting informal consultations to appoint a new Prime Minister by October 10, following Sébastien Lecornu's exit. The political instability is mirrored in public sentiment, with polls showing a rising lead for the far-right Rassemblement national party.

Despite the differing political takes, the ceremony stands as a testament to Badinter's legacy in French justice, even as it highlights the current divisions within French politics.