TITLE: France's National Assembly Introduces Bill Defining Criminal Offences for Violations of European Union Restrictive Measures
BODY:
On March 3, 2026, the French National Assembly received a legislative proposal (Bill No. 2544) concerning the definition of criminal offences and sanctions applicable to violations of European Union (EU) restrictive measures.
The bill aims to establish a legal framework that clarifies criminal penalties and enforcement mechanisms for breaches of EU restrictive measures within French jurisdiction. This legislative initiative addresses the need for consistent application of EU sanctions regimes at the national level, ensuring that violations of EU-imposed restrictions are appropriately prosecuted under French criminal law. The proposal is particularly significant for financial institutions, businesses, and individuals operating in France that must comply with EU sanctions programmes, including those related to trade embargoes, asset freezes, and travel bans.
The bill has been referred to the Commission des Lois (Legal Affairs Committee) of the National Assembly for examination. The legislative proposal is available in multiple formats, including PDF, HTML, and XML versions, and amendments can be submitted during the parliamentary process. Further developments regarding committee deliberations, amendments, and parliamentary votes will determine the bill's progression through the French legislative process.
**Reference:**
Assemblée nationale, Proposition de loi n° 2544, 17e législature