France: National Assembly takes aim at psychological impact of TikTok

14/03/2025

France’s legislative body, the National Assembly, has approved a resolution to establish a new commission that will examine the psychological effects of TikTok on minors. The initiative, spearheaded by Laure Miller, a member of Ensemble pour la République, aims to assess the platform’s impact on children’s and adolescents’ mental health, with a particular focus on issues such as exposure to harmful content and digital addiction.

Launched in 2016 by the Chinese company ByteDance, TikTok has had extraordinary success, reaching a huge global audience of an estimated 1.925 billion users, many of whom are young people. In France, there are nearly 15 million active users each month.

In light of numerous reports of its negative effects – seven French families came together in November 2024 to sue TikTok over its purported failure to remove content featuring themes of suicide, self-harm and eating disorders – France’s National Assembly has supported a resolution to establish a commission that will look into the influence of the platform on children and teens.

The commission, which is expected to operate for up to six months, will investigate whether TikTok encourages self-harm and suicide or contributes to the proliferation of hypersexualized content that could lead to developmental disorders.

See more: Seven French families suing TikTok after teenagers’ deaths

Laure Miller, the MP who proposed the idea for the commission, has emphasised the need for scrutiny, particularly as many TikTok users in France are believed to be under 13, despite the platform’s official age restriction. She has also criticised TikTok’s content moderation policies, calling them “opaque” and “very likely the most ineffective” among social media platforms.

EXPOSURE TO SELF-HARM AND SUICIDE

A study conducted in the United States in 2022 suggested that young users experiencing distress were disproportionately exposed to videos related to self-harm and suicide. This finding has intensified concerns about TikTok’s potential role in amplifying harmful content.

France’s own commission will evaluate the app’s mechanisms that are designed to capture and retain users’ attention, the risks associated with exposure to dangerous material, and the broader implications for digital addiction.

The resolution, which was signed by approximately 80 MPs from various political groups, including Ensemble pour la République, Les Démocrates, Horizons, Socialistes and LIOT, highlights the urgency of addressing these concerns. Lawmakers intend to propose concrete measures aimed at better protecting minors, including stronger content regulation, enhanced digital security and improved moderation practices.

In response to growing scrutiny, TikTok introduced a new parental control feature in the European Union earlier this month, allowing parents to set time limits on their children’s usage. However, the company has remained cautious regarding the commission of inquiry, stating that it will await further details on the specific issues under investigation before responding. A spokesperson for the platform noted that these concerns are not unique to TikTok and affect the broader digital ecosystem.

FOLLOW ON FROM AN EARLIER REPORT

This new inquiry follows a 2023 French Senate investigation that focused on TikTok’s data usage, ties to the Chinese government and potential risks related to espionage and disinformation. While that report emphasised national security concerns, the National Assembly’s current initiative is centered on the health and well-being of the young.

Though different in focus, the 2023 report did make note of the impact on children, stating, “70% of TikTok users in France are under 24, and 40% of young people between 16 and 25 use TikTok daily. Furthermore, children aged four to 18 spend an average of one hour and 47 minutes on TikTok per day.”

Read related:

Monaco’s teens are ditching cigarettes and alcohol but binge on screen time

Monaco Life is produced by real multi-media journalists writing original content. See more in our free newsletter, follow our Podcasts on Spotify, and check us out on Threads,  Facebook,  Instagram,  LinkedIn and Tik Tok. 

Photo source: Cottonbro Studios, Pexels

Monaco to have front-row seat to Apophis asteroid’s historic Earth flyby

by: Kyriaki Topalidou

14/03/2025

In a once-in-a-millennium event, Asteroid Apophis is set to pass closer to Earth than some satellites on 13th April 2029, and Monaco will have a front-row seat to the cosmic spectacle. The 370-metre-wide asteroid will be visible to the naked eye as it streaks across the sky, marking the closest recorded flyby of an asteroid of its size. Monaco Life spoke to Patrick Michel, the director of research at the National Center for Scientific Research (CNRS) in France, to learn more about this exciting phenomenon.

First discovered on 19th June 2004, Apophis was initially identified as a potential impact threat, with early calculations suggesting a 2.7% chance of collision with Earth in 2029. Named after the Egyptian God of Chaos, the asteroid sparked intense concern in the scientific community. Further observations refined its trajectory, eliminating the 2029 threat, but raising concerns for 2036 and 2068.

By 2021, improved radar tracking allowed NASA and other space agencies to rule out any impact risk for at least 100 years, putting to rest fears of a catastrophic collision. However, Apophis remains an object of fascination due to its proximity and the opportunity it provides for scientific research.

European Space Agency’s mission to Apophis

“This is a rare event that gives us an incredible opportunity to study how Earth’s tidal forces might alter the asteroid’s structure. That’s why we are sending a mission with the European Space Agency—to arrive before the encounter and measure any changes that occur during its passage,” Patrick Michel, the director of research at France’s National Center for Scientific Research (CNRS), told Monaco Life.

*Patrick Michel speaking to Monaco Life during a Zoom interview*

In response to this extraordinary event, the European Space Agency (ESA) is launching RAMSES, a mission set for 2028 that will study Apophis before and during its close encounter with Earth. Scientists will use the flyby to observe how Earth’s gravity affects the asteroid’s structure and trajectory.

Beyond the scientific advancements, the mission will provide breathtaking live footage as Apophis makes its historic pass.

“The last time we saw something comparable was when the Apollo astronauts first landed on the moon—people watched the event on television while looking up at the moon in the sky. Now, we will have a similar experience. The public will be able to see the asteroid with their own eyes while also following live images and footage that will enhance this once-in-a-lifetime moment,” Michel explained.

A year of asteroid awareness

Recognising the significance of Apophis’ flyby, the United Nations has designated 2029 as the Year of Asteroid Awareness and Planetary Defence. Scientific institutions along the French Riviera, including those in Monaco and Nice, are already planning public events to celebrate this astronomical milestone, though specific details have yet to be announced.

With its position along the Mediterranean coastline, Monaco will offer one of the best vantage points to observe Apophis as it soars past Earth, bringing astronomy to the forefront for both residents and visitors.

No threat, but science is ready

Although Apophis will pass remarkably close to Earth, there is no cause for concern, and Michel, who also serves as Scientific Director of the Hera Mission for the Côte d’Azur Observatory, reassured Monaco Life that asteroid deflection technologies are already being tested to prepare for any future threats.

“We recently tested deflection technology on an asteroid just 150 metres wide—one that posed no threat to Earth—but we proved that the method works. Now, it’s simply a matter of time and energy: we need to identify any future impact risks early enough to deploy the appropriate resources,” Michel explained.

Rather than worrying about disaster, Michel encourages people to marvel at the event.

“There’s no known threat at the moment, but we’re making sure we are prepared if one ever arises. So, there’s no reason to be worried. In fact, it’s something to be happy about—because there are people like us working to keep the planet safe before anything happens,” he said.

A personal connection to the stars

As one of the world’s leading experts on asteroids, Michel has not only contributed significantly to the planetary defence sector, but has also had an asteroid named in his honour. In return, he has named two non-threatening asteroids after places close to his heart—one after his hometown of Saint-Tropez and another double-asteroid after the city of Nice.

For Monaco and the Riviera, Apophis’ journey presents an unparalleled opportunity to witness the wonders of the universe up close. Whether through scientific discovery or sheer cosmic spectacle, 13th April 2029 promises to be a night to remember.

Monaco Life is produced by real multi-media journalists writing original content. See more in our free newsletter, follow our Podcasts on Spotify, and check us out on Threads,  Facebook,  Instagram,  LinkedIn and Tik Tok.

Written by Kyriaki Topalidou, with editing by Cassandra Tanti

Club Suisse de Monaco invites members to sip and savour this spring

by: Stephanie Horsman

14/03/2025

The Club Suisse de Monaco is set to host a trio of exclusive events in the coming weeks, offering members unique opportunities to socialise in style. From an elegant aperitif to a hands-on culinary workshop and a luxury cruise ship tour, each gathering promises unforgettable experiences.

As one of the Principality’s oldest and most esteemed associations, Club Suisse de Monaco is dedicated to fostering strong connections between Swiss nationals, Monaco residents and the wider international community.

The club’s springtime calendar kicks off with the ever-popular Apéro Fixe on 10th April from 6.30pm to 8pm at Restaurant Marius Monaco in Port Hercule. Guests will enjoy a refined selection of finger foods expertly paired with different wines for €30 a head. This members-only gathering takes place on the second Thursday of every month, providing a regular occasion for elegant socialising.

Next is ‘The Art of Pesto: A Taste of Liguria’ on 26th April from 11am to 2.30pm at The Mall Luxury Outlet in Sanremo. This interactive experience goes beyond merely sampling Liguria’s iconic sauce by featuring a hands-on pesto-making session.

A gourmet lunch at 1pm on the terrace will spotlight brandacujun, a traditional dish from the region, as a starter, the classic trofie al pesto as the main and tiramisu for dessert, accompanied by drinks. After lunch, guests can explore Sanremo and the mall at their leisure, with access to the My Luxury Wallet card offering exclusive discounts and priority services, or return to Monaco. Participation is limited, and reservations are required. Book your place by clicking here.

The third event this spring is an exclusive tour of Silversea’s luxury cruise ship Silver Ray on 5th May from 10am to 3pm. Hosted by Club Suisse de Monaco members Rita and Nicolas Oberson, this event offers guests a glimpse into the world of high-end cruising.

Guests will be welcomed aboard with a drink, followed by an introduction in the Venetian Lounge and a guided tour of the ship’s opulent interiors. A gourmet lunch at The Atlantis will round off the experience in style. As the ship will be docked outside of Port Hercule, a tender crossing will be required. Attendance is restricted to members. To secure your spot in advance, click here.

Due to the popularity of Club Suisse de Monaco events, early reservations are highly recommended. For more information about the club, its events and membership, click here.

Read related:

A Club Suisse milestone: celebrating 75 years of Swiss innovation and impact in Monaco

Photo source: Club Suisse de Monaco

Trump threatens hefty 200% tariff on European wine imports in response to EU’s proposed whiskey tax

by: Stephanie Horsman

14/03/2025

US President Donald Trump has upped the ante in the tariff war, issuing a stark warning to the European Union by threatening to impose a crippling 200% tariff on European wine, Champagne and spirits if the EU proceeds with its proposed tax on American whiskey.

In a move that was expected yet still shocking, Trump has taken umbrage at the EU’s decision to introduce counter-tariffs on certain US imports after he imposed similar measures.

The EU’s levies, unveiled on 13th March as a countermeasure to the steel and aluminium tariffs implemented by the Trump administration on 12th March, are set to take effect on 1st April.

In the wake of the news, Trump took to social media to warn of further escalation in his ongoing trade battle, which involves not only the EU but also many other nations around the world, asserting that he would not tolerate the planned 50% tax on American whiskey.

“If this tariff is not removed immediately, the US will shortly place a 200% tariff on all WINES, CHAMPAGNES & ALCOHOLIC PRODUCTS COMING OUT OF FRANCE AND OTHER E.U. REPRESENTED COUNTRIES,” stated Trump. “This will be great for the wine and Champagne businesses in the US.”

He also shared a clip from a press conference, in which he makes his stance on the situation clearer still. In the clip, Trump declares, “We’re going to take in hundreds of billions of dollars in tariffs, and we’re going to become so rich, you’re not going to know where to spend all that money. I’m telling you—just watch.”

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen addressed the ongoing issue on 13th March, announcing that the EU trade commissioner would be holding discussions with his US counterpart on 14th March.

“We don’t like tariffs because we think tariffs are taxes, and they are bad for business and bad for consumers,” said von der Leyen. “At the same time, we have always said we will defend our interests. We’ve said it, and we’ve shown it, but we are also open to negotiations.”

See more: EU to retaliate against US tariffs with sweeping countermeasures

Von der Leyen stated that as the US imposes tariffs amounting to €26 billion, the EU is preparing to implement retaliatory tariffs of the same sum. These EU tariffs extend beyond steel and aluminium, covering goods such as textiles, home appliances and agricultural products.

Trump’s tenure in the White House has been marked by frequent tariff disputes, with the US President arguing that such taxes on imports, while potentially painful in the short term, would ultimately boost domestic manufacturing and strengthen America’s global position. Meanwhile, the stock market has reflected public concerns regarding the tariffs and trade dispute, with the S&P 500 falling 1.4% on Thursday and European alcohol stocks also taking a hit.

The trade dispute over alcohol could have immediate consequences for consumers – price hikes could soon hit store shelves across both the EU and the US. If Trump follows through with his threat, the cost of a previously untaxed $15 bottle of Italian Prosecco could soar to $45. Similarly, the EU’s countermeasures will mean that a €30 bottle of bourbon in France could rise to €45.

In 2024, the US was the largest overseas market for French wines and spirits, with exports totalling €3.8 billion, a 5% increase from the previous year. Nevertheless, French wine producers are still reeling from the heavy losses incurred due to 25% tariffs in 2019, which led to a 40% drop in US sales and cost the sector €500 million.

A clash of tariffs and countermeasures

Despite growing concerns, European officials appear determined to resist pressure from Washington.

“D. Trump is escalating the trade war he has chosen to unleash,” shared Laurent Saint-Martin, France’s Minister Delegate for Foreign Trade, in a post on X. “France remains determined to retaliate with the European Commission and our partners. We will not give in to threats and will always protect our sectors.”

The latest tariff threats could also have repercussions for businesses that have previously supported Trump, such as France-based luxury goods company LVMH. The group’s CEO, Bernard Arnault, attended Trump’s inauguration in January. Relationships such as these raise questions about whether the broader corporate world will push back against trade policies that have rattled markets and stoked inflation fears.

Meanwhile, Trump has expressed his frustration with the EU’s approach, specifically criticising European policies that he believes unfairly target American companies.

“They are suing all of these companies, and they’re taking trillions of dollars out of American companies,” he said, referring to EU lawsuits and fines against major tech firms like Google and Meta. “And I guess they’re using it to run Europe or something.”

His administration has already imposed tariffs on Canada, Mexico and China, with plans to extend similar measures to the EU, Brazil and South Korea.

With tensions escalating between the economic powerhouses of the EU and the US, businesses and consumers on both sides of the Atlantic may soon feel the impact of this rapidly intensifying trade war.

Photo credit: Vincenzo Iorio, Pexels

Monaco debates new abortion law as Catholic Church weighs in

by: Cassandra Tanti

14/03/2025

Monaco’s National Council has introduced a new bill aiming to legalise abortion up to 12 weeks of pregnancy without requiring a specific reason. The proposal, introduced symbolically on International Women’s Day, represents a significant shift for the Principality, where abortion has long been a controversial topic due to Monaco’s deep-rooted Catholic traditions.

Although abortion was decriminalised for women in 2019, Monegasque doctors still face strict penalties—including up to five years in prison—if they perform the procedure unless under exceptional medical circumstances or in cases of rape. This legal framework forces many women from Monaco to travel abroad for an abortion, often under stressful and urgent conditions. The new proposal aims to change that by providing a legal and safe option within the Principality. It would also extend the abortion limit to 16 weeks for victims of rape. The move includes a mandatory three-day reflection period and financial coverage of the procedure through social security, ensuring fair access for all women.

Béatrice Fresko-Rolfo, President of the Commission on Family Rights and Equality and the bill’s leading advocate, said, “This text would allow the women concerned to exercise their freedom of choice and have control over their own bodies, while benefiting from a secure framework.” She said that, rather than encouraging abortion, “this law aims to protect those who need it.” Meanwhile, National Council President Thomas Brezzo has urged a “calm and responsible debate, respecting all opinions and the realities faced by the women concerned.”

Catholic Church opposes proposal, calls issue “grave”

The bill has sparked strong opposition from Monaco’s Catholic Church, which has historically played a significant role in shaping the country’s social values. In a statement released on 13th March, the Archdiocese of Monaco reaffirmed its position, calling the issue “grave” and warning that it concerns “our entire community: women, the families they are part of, and the most vulnerable members of our society, including the unborn child.”

The statement further emphasised the Church’s concern over the potential societal and institutional impact of the bill, adding, “This is a subject with consequences that are worrisome on multiple levels.” While the Archdiocese acknowledged the legislative process, it cautioned against turning the debate into a source of division or public pressure, stating, “Out of respect for our institutions and the legislative process, it does not seem appropriate to make this a subject of division or a means of pressuring individual consciences.”

Archbishop Dominique-Marie David has also personally raised concerns, in an earlier interview with Monaco Matin, that changing the law could challenge the Concordat, the agreement that governs the relationship between the Catholic Church and the Monegasque state. He questioned whether the Principality should abandon its long-standing identity, saying, “I do not believe the majority of people in Monaco want such a fundamental change. Are we sure we want to put our Sovereign Prince in an impossible position? Shouldn’t we ask ourselves if there are red lines that simply cannot be crossed in the Principality? And if so, is that really such a bad thing?”

A debate set to intensify

In response, Thomas Brezzo pointed to legal studies and research on canon law, telling Monaco Matin that “there is nothing in this text that contradicts our laws.” However, he acknowledged the sensitivity of the topic, adding, “We understand that this can be difficult depending on people’s beliefs and convictions, so we have tried to make this bill as balanced as possible.”

Despite its strong opposition, the Archdiocese has stated its willingness to engage with government representatives, saying it remains “available to discuss the serious challenges this bill presents, both in terms of Catholic teachings—the official religion of our state—and the cohesion of our national community.”

The bill will be debated in the coming weeks, and if passed by the National Council, the government will then decide whether to transform it into a draft law for final approval.

Monaco Life is produced by real multi-media journalists writing original content. See more in our free newsletter, follow our Podcasts on Spotify, and check us out on Threads,  Facebook,  Instagram,  LinkedIn and Tik Tok.

Photo credit: Jasmine, Unsplash

Nice Fair returns to Palais des Expositions with Caribbean theme

by: Kyriaki Topalidou

14/03/2025

The highly anticipated Nice Fair (Foire de Nice) has returned to the Palais des Expositions, bringing a lively Caribbean theme to its 15,000 square meters of exhibition space. With over 400 exhibitors and a brand-new 100% local market, the event promises a rich and diverse experience for visitors of all ages.

The Nice Fair (Foire de Nice) is set to bring an immersive experience that combines shopping, entertainment, and local culture. Running from 15th to 24th March, this year’s edition introduces new features while maintaining the diverse exhibition areas that have been its signature the past few years.

A new addition this year is the 100% local market, a celebration of French Riviera craftsmanship, featuring regional artisans and producers. Visitors can navigate through stalls offering local specialties including craft beers and liquors, exquisite chocolates from Nice’s master chocolatiers, and homemade cookies infused with orange blossom and lemon zest-capturing the essence of Mediterranean flavours.

The market creates a unique opportunity for residents and tourists to meet creators face-to-face and uncover the secret recipes behind beloved regional products. Participants can explore, indulge, and taste their way through southern French traditional cuisine, embarking on a culinary journey that showcases the best of the region.

*The exhibition space in Nice hosting the Foire de Nice. Photo by Monaco Life*

Four main exhibition areas

As in previous years, the fair maintains its four main exhibition areas that have become its signature attractions:

The well-being area, that covers an impressing 14,000 square meters, offering a comprehensive shopping experience with artisanal products, beauty items, and fashionable accessories. Visitors can also take a break from treasure hunting to dine and enjoy a glass of wine at the gastronomic restaurants within the space. The highlight remains the famous camelots – demonstrations of innovative products and revolutionary gadgets.

For those plotting home improvements, the building theme provides inspiration and products for renovation, reconstruction, and interior design. The new feature this year, though, is a free consultation service with specialists including interior architects and landscapers, ready to help visitors plan their dream homes.

The outdoor renovation section is also ready to equip with everything needed for garden, terrace and balcony transformations, including pools, spas, and Mediterranean outdoor solutions.

Completing the quartet, the automotive exhibition showcases new and used vehicles, with a growing emphasis on electric cars and bikes, along with ratings and pricing information for those considering upgrading their transportation.

*A Caribbean theme for this year’s fair in NIce. Photo by Monaco Life.*

The highlight: The Caribbean Treasures and Pirates

The crown jewel of Nice Fair 2025 is undoubtedly the immersive Caribbean pirate-themed experience. Meticulously recreating an 18^th-century pirate port, the exhibition features historical figures such as Blackbeard, Calico Jack, Benjamin Hornigold and Bartholomew Roberts, guiding visitors through a fantasy journey to the golden age when pirates ruled the seas.

A convincing Jack Sparrow lookalike will be available for photo opportunities, delighting fans of the Pirates of the Caribbean films. The experience is complemented by family-friendly activities and demonstrations that bring pirate lore to life, creating memories for visitors of all ages.

Practical information

The fair will run from 15th to 24th March, with standard tickets priced at €6 for adults and €5 for students. Children under 12 enjoy free admission throughout the event.

Several special offers make the fair accessible to all: free admission days on Monday 17th and Monday 24th March; happy hours with free entry daily between 5pm and 7pm; seniors over 60 receive free admission on Tuesday 18th and Thursday 20th March; and Women’s Day on Wednesday 19th March, with free admission for women.

Photo by Monaco Life

Day: 14 March 2025