Paris – 17.06.2026: In a statement published on June 16, 2026, Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu calls on the ministers of his cabinet to undergo unannounced and mandatory drug tests in the form of saliva tests within their ministries. This measure aims to ensure the integrity and professionalism of the government.
The order covers all ministries and is intended to ensure that the employees of their respective ministries are free from drugs. The tests will be conducted without prior notice to increase the effectiveness of the measure. The test results will be treated confidentially, and appropriate actions will be taken in the event of a positive result.
This initiative follows recent government efforts to strengthen public safety and promote citizens’ trust in state institutions. Previously, Prime Minister Lecornu demanded a “change in the dimension of the response” to drug trafficking and emphasized that combatting organized crime requires an intensified reaction.
The measure was welcomed by various political parties, which emphasized the necessity to protect the integrity of the government and strengthen public trust. However, there were also critical voices questioning the effectiveness of such tests and pointing out the need for a more comprehensive strategy to combat drug abuse and corruption within the government.
The government has announced that it will regularly review the test results and take further measures if necessary to ensure the initiative’s effectiveness. Additionally, training programs for ministry employees will be developed to raise awareness of the risks of drug consumption and the importance of maintaining professional standards.
This decision by Prime Minister Lecornu underscores the government’s commitment to increasing public safety and strengthening citizens’ trust in state institutions. By implementing such measures, the government hopes to send a clear message against drug abuse and for the integrity of public administration.
The implementation of this measure will be monitored in the coming weeks and months to evaluate its effectiveness and, if necessary, make adjustments. The government stresses that the integrity and professionalism of its employees are of utmost importance and that such initiatives are necessary to maintain public trust in state institutions.
Overall, this measure represents another step in the government’s comprehensive efforts to strengthen public safety and promote citizens’ confidence in state institutions. By combining preventive and reactive measures, the government hopes to establish an effective strategy to combat drug abuse and corruption within public administration.