French lawmakers narrowly approved Senator François-Noël Buffet on Tuesday as the nation's new Défenseur des droits, or human rights ombudsman. The appointment, proposed by President Emmanuel Macron, confirms Buffet for a key role tasked with protecting the rights of citizens and ensuring institutional accountability.
The selection has sparked significant backlash from various advocacy groups, who argue that Buffet’s past legislative record is incompatible with the mandate of the office. Critics specifically point to his previous opposition to same-sex marriage in France as evidence that he may not adequately defend the rights of all citizens. Despite this vehement opposition, the appointment proceeded following the parliamentary vote.
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