Created in 1949, the Commission for the Surveillance and Control of Publications Intended for Children and Adolescents, an organ of the Ministry of Justice, is responsible for removing various elements deemed harmful from the production of children’s books.
These range from pornography to incitement to discrimination or hatred, including attacks on human dignity, drug trafficking, but also violence or crimes. A fairly broad field, which can considerably limit the freedom of expression of authors and illustrators.
In 2023, the work of this commission was highlighted by its favorable opinion on the ban on the sale of books to minors. Way too smallby Manu Causse (Thierry Magnier editions), although intended for adolescents. In its opinion sent to the Ministry of the Interior, the commission judged these passages “consensual», recommending the decision taken by Gérald Darmanin.
READ – Control of children’s books, “gathering of gills” or useful protection?
Since February 2024, the commission has been chaired by Odile Piérart, honorary state councilor. A decree from the Minister of Justice, published in the Official Journal of October 13, 2024, announces the appointment of David Seiler to the position of secretary general of the commission for the supervision and control of publications intended for children and children. adolescence, replacing Claire Vignon. The latter is called to other functions.
Furthermore, the same decree names Fabrice Chauvet rapporteur of the commission, replacing Maxime Brizard, also called to other functions.
Photography: illustration, ActuaLitté, CC BY SA 2.0
