Feminist March: Unions Seek Ban on Far-Right Group Némésis
French authorities are facing calls to ban the identitarian group Némésis from participating in upcoming International Women’s Day marches, following concerns over the organization’s far-right ideology and potential for inciting violence. A letter signed by several major French trade unions and associations – including the CGT, CFDT, UNSA, and the Planning Familial – urges Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez to “prevent any violent incident” by prohibiting Némésis’ presence at the demonstrations.
The signatories argue that Némésis consistently disrupts feminist marches, seeking to “sabotage” the events and impose its own agenda. They emphasize that the group does not share the core tenets of the feminist movement, particularly regarding reproductive rights, and instead aims to exploit women’s mobilization for “racist objectives.” According to the letter, Némésis members are often accompanied by “dozens of men, militants from far-right groups, trained in violent action and ready to fight” when attempting to infiltrate the marches.
The request for a ban comes amid heightened tensions following the death of Quentin Deranque, a 23-year-old far-right activist, in Lyon earlier this month. Deranque died after being attacked during clashes with antifascist activists while providing security for Némésis members protesting a conference by Rima Hassan, a radical left Member of the European Parliament. Six individuals have been placed under investigation for “voluntary homicide” in connection with Deranque’s death, with one additional suspect facing charges of “complicity.” Investigators reportedly believe the suspects are linked to a dissolved ultra-leftist movement, La Jeune Garde.
The incident has sparked a wave of protests from far-right groups and calls for tougher measures against antifascist movements. However, the signatories of the letter to Minister Nuñez stress the importance of ensuring a safe and peaceful environment for feminist demonstrations, particularly in light of the recent violence. They highlight the history of disruptions caused by Némésis and other far-right groups, and express concern that their presence could escalate tensions and jeopardize the safety of participants.
Némésis, founded in 2019, has gained notoriety for its provocative protests and its tendency to infiltrate left-wing demonstrations with hidden slogans. The group consistently blames immigrants and Muslims for sexual violence, a narrative that is sharply at odds with the principles of the feminist movement. Le Monde reported in November 2024 that the group operates by concealing its true agenda, often using deceptive signage to reveal its far-right messages at the last moment.
The concerns raised by the unions and associations reflect a broader debate in France about the rise of extremism and the challenges of maintaining public order during politically charged events. The government faces a delicate balancing act between protecting freedom of expression and preventing violence, while also ensuring that marginalized groups can exercise their rights without fear of intimidation or harassment. The call to ban Némésis from the 8 March marches represents a proactive attempt to mitigate these risks and safeguard the integrity of the feminist movement.
The organizations signing the letter emphasize that they “condemn the tragedy in Lyon” and wish for the feminist marches on 8 March to proceed “serenely.” They are seeking a swift and decisive response from the authorities to prevent any further escalation of tensions and to guarantee a safe space for all women participating in the demonstrations.