Laurent Nunez: France’s Interior Minister at the Centre of Security and Political Challenges
PARIS, 30 January 2026 – Laurent Nunez, France’s Interior Minister and former head of the domestic intelligence service DGSI, is navigating a complex portfolio of domestic security issues. From overseeing a “massive” new anti-drug offensive to managing the fallout from a controversial police custody death, Nunez remains a pivotal figure in President Emmanuel Macron’s government during a period of heightened political and social tension.
A Week of High-Level Meetings and New Offensives
The minister’s schedule reflects the pressing nature of his brief. On 28 January, Nunez was photographed leaving the Élysée Palace after the weekly cabinet meeting. This followed a separate high-level meeting presided over by President Macron specifically targeting the narcotics trade, with a comprehensive inter-ministerial plan expected within a month. Macron has described ports and airports as critical vulnerabilities and urged stronger state action, signalling a significant escalation in resources and focus for Nunez’s ministry.
Key Facts & Recent Engagements
| Issue | Minister Nunez’s Role / Stance |
|---|---|
| Anti-Drug Trafficking Plan | Overseeing implementation of a new “massive” inter-ministerial strategy focused on securing ports and airports, as mandated by President Macron. |
| Death of Hacen Diarra | Has rejected calls to suspend police officers involved in the 25 January custody death of the migrant worker, which sparked large protests in Paris. An internal police investigation is ongoing. |
| France-Israel Football Match | Personally labelled the upcoming fixture a “high-risk game,” ordering security measures at a “very high level” with an extensive police presence. |
| Political Profile | Seen alongside Culture Minister Rachida Dati at the National Assembly; defended the government’s position in a diplomatic matter involving George and Amal Clooney against criticism from a colleague. |
From Police Prefect to Interior Minister
Nunez’s appointment to the interior ministry draws on his extensive background in French security apparatus. A former Prefect of Police for Paris and once the director of the DGSI intelligence service, his operational experience is now being tested across a broad front. His recent pick of Antoine Izambard, a former colleague from the Paris Prefecture, for a key role underscores his reliance on trusted networks from his previous commands.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Laurent Nunez’s main priority currently?
According to recent statements from the Élysée, the primary focus is the launch of a reinforced, nationwide offensive against drug trafficking networks, with particular emphasis on intercepting shipments at maritime ports and airports.
How has he responded to the protests over Hacen Diarra’s death?
Minister Nunez has maintained support for the police institution, rejecting demands from protestors and some political figures to suspend the officers involved pending the outcome of the internal investigation.
What was his role before becoming Interior Minister?
Laurent Nunez served as the Prefect of Police for Paris and, prior to that, as the head of France’s Directorate General for Internal Security (DGSI), the country’s leading domestic intelligence agency.