Robert Badinter, who ended death penalty in France, dead at 95
Former French justice minister Robert Badinter, renowned for his pivotal role in abolishing capital punishment in France in 1981, passed away at the age of 95, as confirmed by his aide Aude Napoli to AFP on Friday.
Badinter, who also held the prestigious position of head of France's highest administrative body, the Constitutional Council, passed away overnight, according to Napoli.
During his tenure as justice minister, shortly after assuming office under Socialist President Francois Mitterrand, Badinter successfully championed a law in parliament that led to the abolition of capital punishment in France. This significant legislative achievement brought an end to executions, which until then had been carried out using the guillotine.
President Emmanuel Macron paid tribute to Badinter's legacy, recognizing his contributions to the advancement of justice and human rights in France. In a statement, Macron hailed Badinter as a "lawyer, minister of justice, and man who abolished the death penalty," noting that Badinter remained committed to the pursuit of enlightenment throughout his career.
Describing Badinter as a "person of the century," Macron emphasized his profound impact on French society, highlighting his unwavering dedication to the principles of the Republic and his embodiment of the French spirit.
Badinter's efforts to eliminate capital punishment not only transformed France's legal landscape but also resonated globally, serving as a beacon of progress and a testament to the power of advocacy in shaping societal norms.
As news of Badinter's passing reverberated across France and beyond, tributes poured in from political leaders, legal scholars, and human rights activists, all recognizing his indelible mark on history and his enduring legacy as a champion of justice.
Robert Badinter's passing marks the end of an era, but his legacy will continue to inspire future generations to uphold the principles of justice, equality, and human dignity that he tirelessly fought for throughout his remarkable life.
