Unions at France Télévisions protest hiring of extreme-right journalist Charles Sapin

The CGT, CFDT and SNJ unions representing staff at France Télévisions issued a communiqué condemning the recruitment of Charles Sapin, deputy editor of the far-right weekly Valeurs Actuelles, to a role on franceinfo TV. The unions stress that the publication is not a neutral outlet but inherits a history of extremist discourse and was recently fined for racist insults. They cite past controversies, including a depiction of LFI politician Danièle Obono as a slave and the involvement of billionaire Pierre-Édouard Stérin in its ownership, to argue that Sapin’s presence threatens the broadcaster’s editorial standards.

An inter-union of Radio France has submitted a strike notice for two consecutive Sundays, demanding the withdrawal of Sapin’s weekly editorial piece. Céline Pigalle, head of France Inter, defended the appointment, describing Radio France as an open, independent and impartial institution that can host diverse viewpoints. The unions are urging management to reconsider the decision amid growing unease among staff.