2026 campaign video: Gabriel Attal’s glass of beer raises questions in light of the Evin law
Gabriel Attal’s promotional video for the « 1000 bistros » campaign features the former Prime Minister with a glass of beer, the brand of which is clearly visible. Several associations believe this imagery violates the spirit of the Evin Law, which regulates alcohol advertising. However, according to a lawyer cited in the case, the outcome of any potential legal action is uncertain.
A glass at the heart of the campaign video
Published on Gabriel Attal’s account on September 7, 2026, the video presents his « 1000 bistros » initiative, which he says is designed to encourage meetings and discussions. In it, he advocates for a presidential campaign that wouldn’t be limited to large rallies, but would also include informal conversations around a table.
In the images, he walks with a beer, sits down with the glass, and toasts. A brand name appears visible through the glass at several points. On September 10, after the first event of the campaign held in Saint-Malo, Gabriel Attal mentioned the initiative again on social media.
Interviewed during a visit to a local bistro, he defended the role of alcoholic beverages in the French way of life. For him, having a drink is not the same as promoting alcoholism.
The associations denounce the promotion of alcohol.
Addictions France believes this communication violates the Evin Law, adopted in 1991, which regulates direct and indirect advertising of alcoholic beverages. Bernard Basset, honorary president of the association, specifically cites the presence of a brand name on the glass. He also mentions the June 2023 law on influencers, which clarifies the application of the Evin Law to websites and content creators.
Beyond the brand itself, associations are criticizing the association between alcohol and conviviality. Mickaël Naassila, president of the French Society of Addictology, points out that the video links beer to gatherings and conversations. Bernard Basset also emphasizes the absence of the health warning « Excessive alcohol consumption is dangerous for your health. »
These elements constitute the arguments of the associations, and not a court decision on the legality of the video. The issue centers, in particular, on the line between informing or communicating about a beverage and promoting it.
A legal response that remains uncertain
Digital law attorney Etienne Deshoulières, who regularly advises influencers, believes that a court would not necessarily convict Gabriel Attal. He points out that a 1992 ruling by the European Court of Human Rights recognizes broad freedom of expression for political figures during campaigns.
The case thus creates a tension between public health objectives, particularly the prevention of alcohol consumption among young people, and the candidates’ freedom of expression. According to the lawyer, there is no prior case law specifically addressing this combination. In the absence of a court ruling on this case, the video’s compliance with the Evin Law remains an open question.
The facts and positions reported were published by Le vrai du faux on September 11, 2026.
Source: The truth about lies (www.sudouest.fr)
Original article: See the original source
