Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu has instructed all government ministers to organise “unannounced and mandatory” saliva drug tests for members of their ministerial cabinets, as well as certain high-ranking civil servants.
The measure, set out in a circular dated June 16, aims to prevent drug consumption within the state apparatus.
Titled “Measures to prevent the consumption of narcotics within the State”, the circular requires ministers to implement random, obligatory testing for their staff and for senior officials appointed by the government — including prefects, ambassadors, and rectors — particularly those in sensitive positions or holding security clearances.
Positive results or refusal to take a test will lead to disciplinary sanctions.
Lecornu, who has already submitted himself to such a test, justified the move by citing the “particular requirement of exemplarity” that applies to those exercising public authority.
He has framed the policy as part of the government’s wider crackdown on narcotrafficking.
A surprise test was reportedly already carried out at Matignon earlier this month.
The initiative follows at least one high-profile case in which a ministerial adviser was removed after an overdose.
Lecornu’s office stresses that the state cannot credibly fight drug trafficking while tolerating consumption among its own ranks, especially among those handling sensitive information.
The tests will target roles involving national security, defence, or high exposure, but the circular leaves ministers discretion to decide the precise scope within their departments.
Critics, mainly some within the political class, have described it as a “report of defiance” towards the senior civil service, questioning whether it risks creating a climate of suspicion.
They said it was an infantilising move.
President Emmanuel Macron has repeatedly called for sweeping and tough actions against drug trafficking and consumption in recent years.
Last November he held emergency Élysée meetings on spiralling drug violence in Marseille and called for stepping up the fight, comparing it to the approach used against terrorism.
He publicly condemned “bourgeois” city-centre drug users for financing traffickers.
Implementation details, including frequency of testing and exact categories of staff affected, will now be worked out at ministerial level. The policy is expected to take effect rapidly across government departments.
Laurent Vallet, president of the National Audiovisual Institute, a public institution that preserves and promotes France’s audiovisual heritage, was arrested in Paris for allegedly buying drugs from a 17-year-old. https://t.co/lA9p7yCQyh
— Brussels Signal (@brusselssignal) August 12, 2025
