France has approved the temporary return of two controversial pesticides that had been banned nationally for the past two years, reigniting a fierce debate between agricultural competitiveness and environmental protection. Lawmakers backed an emergency farm bill that allows limited use of the insecticides under strict conditions, arguing that French farmers need the chemicals to remain competitive with rivals across the European Union. Environmental groups, however, say the move weakens France's long-standing commitment to protecting bees and biodiversity. The decision has triggered political tensions, public criticism and renewed concerns over the potential impact of the pesticides on pollinators, ecosystems and human health.
