SHOTLIST:

PARIS, FRANCE (NOV. 4, 2025) (ANADOLU - ACCESS ALL)

1. VARIOUS OF FORMER LAFARGE EXECUTIVES WAITING OUTSIDE PARIS CRIMINAL COURT / POLICE AND SECURITY PRESENCE INSIDE BUILDING PARIS, FRANCE - NOV. 4: The trial of French cement giant Lafarge began in Paris on Tuesday, Nov. 4, over allegations that the company financed terrorist groups during its operations in Syria.

The case, held at the Paris Criminal Court, accuses Lafarge of “financing terrorism” and “violating international sanctions.” The proceedings, expected to last until Dec. 16, involve the company as a legal entity and eight individuals, including former executives and intermediaries accused of dealing with armed groups in Syria between 2012 and 2014.

According to rights organizations Sherpa and the European Center for Constitutional and Human Rights (ECCHR), the case represents a “landmark opportunity” for French justice to examine corporate accountability in conflict zones.

If convicted, Lafarge could face fines of up to €1.125 million, while individual defendants risk up to 10 years in prison and additional financial penalties.

The company is also under separate investigation for complicity in crimes against humanity — an unprecedented charge for a multinational corporation.