France's riot police celebrate 80 years of controversy and public disdain
- The Republican Security Companies were established on December 8, 1944, to replace the disbanded Reserve Mobile Groups which had a disreputable past.
- Despite a rare moment of connection with the public during the Charlie Hebdo march in 2015, the CRS remain widely disliked.
- Eighty years after their creation, the CRS are still viewed as France's least popular police officers amidst ongoing domestic protests.
In France, the Republican Security Companies (CRS) marked their 80th anniversary on December 8, 2024. Established in 1944 to replace the disbanded Reserve Mobile Groups created during the Vichy regime, the CRS have been involved in various critical events over the decades, which has significantly shaped their reputation. Historically, the GMR's association with the German occupation during World War II and their harsh actions against Resistance fighters left a deep-seated distrust towards police forces in France. This narrative has persisted, leading to the CRS being viewed poorly by the public. The recent dissatisfaction culminated in protests against the 2023 pension reform, where CRS officers were the targets of harsh criticism from demonstrators. Despite a visible moment of empathy during the republican march following the Charlie Hebdo attack in 2015, the prevailing sentiment has returned to resentment. The rallying cries at the protests reflected the enduring tension that exists between the CRS and segments of the population, emphasizing perceived injustices and abuses of power by the police. Despite their responsibilities in maintaining order during civil unrest, the CRS have been absent from positive representation in media, marking a stark contrast to other police units. With a membership of approximately 13,520 officers, they remain one of the least liked police forces in the nation. Their legacy is intertwined with the broader landscape of policing in France, characterized by a historical backdrop of loyalty to state authority and the necessity for public safety in a country grappling with social unrest. The CRS has become emblematic of the struggle between police duties and community relations, rooted in their creation from a tumultuous period in France's history. Today, as they confront ongoing challenges, their image and relationship with the French public continue to be a contentious topic, prompting discussions about policing strategies and community engagement.