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Robert Badinter, the man who marked the history of French justice through his fight against the death penalty, passed away on the night of February 8–9, 2024. In an unrelenting quest for justice, his life was shaped by a fierce struggle for human rights.
From his earliest days as a lawyer, Robert Badinter stood out for his ability to defend difficult causes, often on behalf of the most vulnerable. His commitment reached its peak when he became Minister of Justice under François Mitterrand.
In 1981, his determination paid off with the abolition of the death penalty in France. But this historic victory was not only legislative; above all, it represented the culmination of a moral struggle against an institution that Badinter regarded as "the ultimate denial of human rights."
Badinter was also known for his involvement in international causes. He served as a special envoy for Unicef, which led him to visit children’s prisons in Eastern Europe. He was also involved in setting up the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia.
Beyond the politician and jurist, Badinter was a committed intellectual. As an author, he knew how to put his pen in the service of his convictions. His works, such as The Execution and The Abolition, are not only accounts of his personal experience, but also appeals for human dignity. His commitments were notably shaped by the trials of his personal life, such as the death of his father during the Second World War.
The passing of this man with such an extraordinary life is a great loss for France and for all those who fight for justice and human rights around the world. His legacy will remain forever alive: a constant reminder for present and future generations of the importance of defending equality. The President of the Republic, Emmanuel Macron, announced that a national tribute will be paid to the man who long shared the life of the distinguished philosopher Élisabeth Badinter.