The National Assembly did not even have to vote on whether or not to lift online anonymity this Thursday, October 5, the controversial amendments having simply been withdrawn.
Some dreamed of it, others, to say the least, were offended by it. The debate on the end of anonymity on the Internet has shaken the National Assembly, but also France in recent days. And ultimately, the subject was removed from the digital bill. Defenders of civil liberties and the government were opposed to this measure, fearing that it would contravene European rules or the Constitution.
Despite the offensive (by certain Macronist deputies in particular) in favor of lifting anonymity, the executive prevailed.
The controversy over the end of anonymity ends… for now
Renaissance deputy Paul Midy, supported by other members of the presidential majority, had pleaded in favor of the end of anonymity on the Internet to try to stem violence on social networks. The elected official recommended a “license plate” system for French users on the Internet, while preserving pseudonymity.
Paul Midy, who went against the government, ended up withdrawing his amendments to compromise the final vote on the bill at first reading, while recalling that the Senate has already adopted it. This measure was in any case hotly contested and even described as “repression” by opponents, while others considered it an unnecessary intrusion into private life.
The elected representatives of the Palais Bourbon, on the other hand, adopted another proposal from the deputy for Essonne which aims to guarantee that 100% of French people can have access to a free digital identity by 2027. This measure was welcomed by those who see it as a way to facilitate access to public services and secure administrative procedures. However, it will not be binding, thanks to the vote on a sub-amendment, this time proposed by the MoDem.
Digital identity for all by 2027 voted for
Supporters of digital identity believe it is a necessary step to improve access to rights. For others, it raises concerns about a possible extension of this digital identity to all aspects of online life. As you will have understood, the debate continues on the balance between security and privacy in the digital space.
The National Assembly also voted in favor of compulsory digital awareness training for 6 year old students.ewhich will take the form of a certificate called “Pix”, planned for the start of the 2024 school year. The measure aims to strengthen online security and understanding of digital issues from an early age.
But the vast digital bill addresses several other issues, for example linked to cyberharassment, the accessibility of pornographic sites for minors as well as online scams, with a highly anticipated anti-scam filter. It also draws on the new European regulations, the DSA and the DMA, to further strengthen the security and regulation of the digital space.
16