The Paris Court of Appeal ordered Europe 1 to pay €300,000 to former journalist Mathieu Charrier, who was removed from his position in 2021. The case highlights employer obligations and the ongoing controversies surrounding the station’s editorial shift under Vincent Bolloré’s control.
On October 4, 2024, the Paris Court of Appeal ruled that Europe 1, a radio station now owned by Vincent Bolloré, must pay nearly €300,000 to former journalist Mathieu Charrier, who was pushed out in 2021. Charrier, who was the head of the Society and Culture department, had his duties reduced before being forced to resign after learning through the press of his removal from the movie program “Clap.” Following his resignation, he claimed wrongful termination and sought legal recourse. Initially denied, he later won various claims against the radio, culminating in the substantial compensation. His lawyer, Camille Janson, expressed that the decision underscores the employer’s duty of loyalty. Europe 1 has not commented on the matter.
The ruling comes amidst broader controversies surrounding Europe 1, particularly after significant changes in its editorial line since Vincent Bolloré took control. The station had undergone transformations that raised concerns among employees regarding increasing right-wing influences, especially after its merger with CNews. This merger led to numerous resignations and the replacement of established figures with more controversial hosts like Pascal Praud and Cyril Hanouna, marking a significant shift in the station’s identity.
The appellate court’s decision marks a significant legal victory for Mathieu Charrier, highlighting issues of employer responsibility and fairness in the workplace, especially within media organizations facing editorial shifts. The ruling also signals potential challenges for Europe 1’s management in maintaining staff morale amid ongoing controversies about political bias and programming direction under Bolloré’s ownership.
Original Source: www.telerama.fr
Leave a Reply