French Prime Minister Instructs Ministers to Conduct Drug Tests in Their Offices — AFP
French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu has instructed his ministers to organize random drug tests among civil servants.
The main goal of this new measure is to detect possible use of illegal substances within government circles and to ensure national security.
According to the document, government agencies will introduce mandatory screening in the form of saliva tests for top-ranking officials.
Particular attention will be paid to employees who have direct access to “confidential information” or hold special “security clearances.” This primarily applies to specialists working in the fields of national defense and internal security.
The head of government emphasized that drug addiction among civil servants undermines the authority of institutions.
“In addition to posing a threat to themselves and affecting their service, it creates a personal vulnerability that can be exploited by pressure groups, criminal organizations, or manipulators seeking to interfere,” the prime minister explained his decision.
Sébastien Lecornu also stressed that “the utmost vigilance is required” on this issue.
Sources close to the head of government note that the authorities are seeking to demonstrate their uncompromising stance.
“The state cannot pursue a clear policy against drug trafficking and its consequences in society without holding itself to the same standards,” a source close to the prime minister explained to the publication.
He also added: “This is a requirement to set an example and ensure a level of security commensurate with the duties entrusted to us.”
Currently, ministry heads are tasked with compiling clear lists of positions that will be subject to regular testing. Officials are required to submit the corresponding action plans and lists to the prime minister for review by June 26.
If a test comes back positive, ministers will be able to take strict measures, “including disciplinary ones,” and refer employees “to medical facilities.”
The relevant directive from the French prime minister was obtained by the AFP news agency.
Britain, France, and Germany Have Presented Russia with Conditions for Peace in Ukraine
France will receive 15.1 billion euros from the EU for rearmament
