Dossiers enterrés par la France et investigations ? Jean-Baptiste Rivoire [EN DIRECT]

Jean-Baptiste Rivoire, a seasoned journalist with 30 years of experience, known for his investigative work and resistance to injustice, discusses the state of journalism, particularly in audiovisual media, and his work with Off Investigation. He recounts an initial misunderstanding with Thinkerview that delayed their conversation for years, stemming from a young press attaché's unconventional approach. Rivoire shares his career trajectory, including a significant period at Canal+. He highlights Canal+ in the early 2000s as a rare space for independent investigation, contrasting it with more commercial channels like TF1/M6 and the politically influenced public broadcasting. He recounts an early experience at France 3 Nancy where the local bureau chief, paid by EDF, attempted to organize a debate about a nuclear power plant installation, which Rivoire refused to film due to the conflict of interest. A pivotal moment discussed is the censorship of an investigative report on Crédit Mutuel in May 2015 at Canal+. The report, which exposed alleged cash handling and tax evasion schemes for wealthy clients, was ready for broadcast but was suddenly pulled. Rivoire explains how Vincent Bolloré, then a major shareholder in Vivendi (Canal+'s parent company), allegedly intervened. This intervention is linked to Bolloré's partnership with Michel Lucas, the head of Crédit Mutuel, who had financed Bolloré's acquisition of Vivendi shares. The censorship highlights a significant shift in Canal+'s editorial independence under Bolloré's influence, a shift that ultimately led to the demise of investigative programs like "Les Guignols." The conversation delves into the complex political landscape surrounding Canal+ and Vincent Bolloré's rise to power. Rivoire traces Bolloré's increasing influence in Vivendi back to 2011, when Nicolas Sarkozy, then President, was reportedly at odds with Canal+ for its critical content, particularly "Les Guignols." Sarkozy's frustration stemmed from the satirical show and "Le Zapping," which he felt undermined his image. Jean-René Fourtout, then head of Vivendi, allegedly facilitated Bolloré's entry into Vivendi's capital to appease Sarkozy and secure political backing for the upcoming presidential election. This move, Rivoire argues, allowed Bolloré to gradually gain control of Canal+. The discussion then moves to the broader issues of media control and independence. Rivoire criticizes the French state's aid to the press, arguing that it disproportionately benefits billionaires like Bernard Arnault, who use media outlets to serve their interests. Off Investigation, by contrast, relies on citizen donations for financing, emphasizing its independence from both state and corporate influence. Rivoire recounts his own experience of being sidelined and eventually leaving Canal+ in 2015 due to the increasing pressure and censorship. He details the systematic dismantling of investigative journalism and satirical programs under Bolloré, including the alleged pressure on journalists and the eventual closure of "Les Guignols." He describes the silencing tactics employed, such as offering severance packages with non-disclosure clauses, a practice he believes is widespread in French media. The conversation touches upon the challenges of independent journalism in France. Rivoire highlights the financial precarity of independent media outlets and the constant struggle for resources. He contrasts the substantial budgets of mainstream media with the modest means of Off Investigation, emphasizing that their impact is achieved through rigorous work and citizen support. A significant portion of the discussion is dedicated to the case of Robert Boulin, a minister under Valéry Giscard d'Estaing, who died in suspicious circumstances in 1979. Rivoire details how Boulin was allegedly targeted by political rivals within the Gaullist party, particularly Jacques Chirac and Charles Pasqua, who sought to undermine Giscard's re-election bid. The official verdict of suicide is questioned, with evidence suggesting foul play and a subsequent cover-up by political and judicial circles. The narrative highlights the threats and deaths of individuals close to Boulin, the alleged mafia-like tactics of the RPR, and the long struggle of Boulin's family to uncover the truth. Rivoire also discusses the role of media in covering conflicts, using the example of the Gulf War and the challenges of embedded journalism. He argues that powerful entities, whether states or corporations, exert control over the media narrative, making independent reporting difficult. He criticizes the lack of resources and editorial freedom in French public media, which he believes are too dependent on political power. The conversation addresses the rise of artificial intelligence and its potential impact on journalism. While acknowledging AI's potential as a tool for tasks like synthesizing lengthy reports, Rivoire expresses caution about its use in journalistic writing, emphasizing the importance of human integrity and personal responsibility in reporting. Rivoire shares his views on the declining public trust in journalism, citing statistics that indicate a significant portion of the population disbelieves media reports. He attributes this distrust to the pervasive influence of billionaires and the state on media content, leading to a loss of credibility and the spread of misinformation. Finally, Rivoire offers advice to young aspiring journalists, urging them to remain independent, question their own beliefs, and rigorously verify information. He emphasizes the importance of critical thinking and the courage to challenge established narratives, even when it comes at a personal cost. He concludes by stressing the vital role of independent media in a democratic society and the need for citizen support to sustain it.