Sciences Po Paris is facing scrutiny following reports that university officials allegedly used surveillance methods to monitor students involved in pro-Palestine activism and demonstrations on campus.
The Sciences Po Surveillance Allegations emerged through an investigation published by a French media outlet, which reported that students were monitored through social media activity, photographs, and observations conducted during campus events.
According to the report, the university opened disciplinary investigations involving at least 48 students since 2024. It also stated that 13 students were temporarily prohibited from accessing university premises while disciplinary reviews were ongoing.
Most of the temporary restrictions were later lifted, although some cases reportedly remained active. The investigations primarily involved students connected to pro-Palestine demonstrations and campus actions.
The report identified Pierre Catalan, who served as director of student life during the period in question, as a key figure in the alleged monitoring activities. Students interviewed during the investigation claimed that information was gathered about members of a campus Palestine Committee and individuals involved in protest activities.
Some students alleged that photographs and social media content were collected and used as part of disciplinary files. The report also claimed that a social media account operating under a pseudonym was used to follow and monitor student activists.
According to the investigation, Sciences Po’s ethics committee reviewed aspects of the matter in 2024. The committee reportedly concluded that certain actions fell outside official professional responsibilities and could contribute to an intimidating atmosphere for students.
The report stated that Catalan acknowledged making an error regarding some of the actions examined by the committee. However, it indicated that no disciplinary measures affecting his position were implemented.
Additional claims involve the use of photographs obtained from student social media accounts and information linked to academic records. Some students argued that evidence used against them was incomplete or inaccurate.
One student reportedly said he was mistakenly identified because of similarities between his footwear and images appearing in online photographs. According to the report, another individual later accepted responsibility for the incident under investigation.
The Sciences Po Surveillance Allegations also involve claims regarding video footage from a student assembly held in September 2025. The investigation reported that material secretly recorded by a journalist was later included in at least one disciplinary file.
According to the journalist involved, university officials had not been informed before the undercover recording took place. The circumstances surrounding the use of that footage have raised additional questions about evidence gathering and disciplinary procedures.
When approached for comment, Sciences Po reportedly did not directly address the specific allegations detailed in the investigation. However, the university expressed support for Catalan and criticized what it described as personal attacks directed toward him.
The controversy comes amid broader debates in France and other countries regarding freedom of expression, student activism, and university governance. Many higher education institutions have faced challenges in balancing campus security, disciplinary procedures, and the right to peaceful protest.
Students and legal representatives involved in the case have argued that the reported monitoring practices contributed to a climate of pressure on pro-Palestine activism. They contend that disciplinary actions should be conducted transparently and with clear safeguards for student rights.
University officials, meanwhile, face increasing scrutiny over how disciplinary investigations are managed and what types of evidence can be used during proceedings.
The Sciences Po Surveillance Allegations remain the subject of ongoing discussion, with several disciplinary and legal processes reportedly still underway. As investigations continue, the case is expected to contribute to wider conversations about privacy, student activism, and institutional accountability within higher education.
Observers say the outcome of the remaining proceedings could have implications for future university policies related to protests, campus monitoring, and student disciplinary practices.
