The current political climate has become even more turbulent for Aurore Bergé, France's Minister for Equality between Women and Men, as the Court of Justice of the Republic (CJR) has launched a judicial investigation against her for alleged false testimony.
This investigation, announced on January 31, 2025, stems from statements made by Bergé during sworn testimony before the National Assembly's commission of inquiry on April 30, 2024. During this testimony, she categorically denied having any personal ties with lobbyist Elsa Hervy, who is the General Delegate of the French Federation of Crèches.
According to Rémy Heitz, the Prosecutor General near the Court of Cassation, these inquiries were prompted by procedures initiated by the National Assembly's bureau following the serious nature of the claims made. Heitz remarked, "The CJR is the sole jurisdiction authorized to pursue and judge government members for infractions committed during their duties." With the investigation officially under way, the situation has become increasingly precarious for Bergé.
Victor Castanet, the investigative journalist and author of the book "Les Ogres," which highlights the troubling practices of certain private crèche groups, alleges there was a secretive "pact of non-aggression" between Bergé and Hervy during Bergé's previous tenure as Minister for Families from July 2023 to January 2024. Castanet's work has brought attention to existing problems within the private crèche sector, including putting profit motives above child care quality.
"When I was under oath, I knew the stakes. I have never, ever met Elsa Hervy in any personal and intimate setting," Bergé asserted after Castanet's revelations became public. She stood firm against accusations from leftist politicians who called for the Assembly to take action, claiming she had failed to disclose full transparency about her relationships with lobbyists.
Further complicate matters, on January 30, 2025, it became known the CJR has officially opened the investigation based on Castanet's claims and ensuing documentation, which includes emails and messages purportedly showing collaboration between Bergé and Hervy. One email allegedly contains Bergé referring to Hervy as "a friend," leading to questions about her previous denials: "She is especially a friend :) She will be very helpful to me," the email read. This has called her integrity as both a public official and minister of equal rights squarely onto the table.
Castanet has also published documents showing what he describes as "an agreement" between the two women, which allegedly involved coordinating responses to media scrutiny over their ties, fueling suspicions of collusion. "There was certainly collusion between Aurore Bergé and Elsa Hervy," Castanet stated, reinforcing the need for thorough investigation.
Hervy has defended herself by denying any accusations of having formed such pacts, instead describing her interactions with Bergé as routine professional exchanges. "There was no pact of aggression, just professional exchanges," she clarified, distancing herself from the scandal.
Yet, the political ramifications extend beyond Bergé herself. Other left-wing parliamentarians reacted strongly to the investigation, and some have outlined plans for the Assembly to pursue measures against the minister, emphasizing the importance of maintaining political accountability. Aurore Bergé’s supporters, including her lawyer Jade Dousselin, have stated she would cooperate fully with the CJR's inquiries, upholding the principle of transparency.
"We acknowledge the opening of this investigation as the natural consequence of the CJR's involvement. Bergé will respond to any inquiry and requests for information," Dousselin commented. She noted the political climate's harsh realities as Bergé becomes embroiled in controversy.
The CJR’s involvement sheds light on the role of governance and the importance of ethical conduct among public officials. Political integrity remains central to democracy, and any perceived failings can carry significant consequences. This investigation serves as not only a trial for Bergé but reflects the broader issues facing ethical governance today.
While Aurore Bergé navigates the scrutiny of her actions and words, the outcome of this inquiry may define not only her future as France's Minister for Equality but also the relationship between politics and lobbying efforts. The coming months will be closely watched as the CJR continues its investigations and the public awaits clarity on this significant matter of accountability within the French government.