After Trappes: The Democratic Duty to Refuse Collective Blame

The attack in Trappes and La Verrière calls first for compassion towards the victims and their families. It also requires democratic restraint. While justice must establish individual responsibility, public debate must resist collective blame. Free expression remains essential, but citizens, media and political leaders share responsibility for distinguishing facts from fear and people from stereotypes. Education and critical judgment are indispensable safeguards against hatred, division and the exploitation of human suffering. This responsibility concerns public institutions and every citizen alike.